Top 8 Phone Scams Targeting Texas Residents
#1 Energy Company Impersonation
HIGHEST RISKTexas's deregulated energy market makes it prime territory for utility scams. Callers impersonate Oncor, CenterPoint, Reliant, TXU, or other providers threatening to cut power unless you pay immediately by gift card or wire transfer. The summer heat makes this extra effective — nobody wants their AC shut off.
#2 Contractor & Storm Damage Fraud
VERY COMMONTexas sees frequent severe weather — hail storms, tornadoes, and hurricanes. After each event, scam contractors flood the area with robocalls offering discounted repairs. They collect insurance money upfront and disappear, or do work that doesn't pass inspection.
#3 Military Impersonation Scams
HIGH RISKTexas has one of the largest military populations in the US (Fort Hood, Fort Sam Houston, Fort Bliss, etc.). Scammers call military families claiming their loved one is in trouble overseas and needs money immediately. They also target veterans with fake VA benefit claims.
#4 Real Estate & Property Tax Scams
COMMONTexas's booming real estate market has generated massive volumes of real estate robocalls. Additionally, scammers target homeowners with calls about "property tax reduction services" that charge large fees for work homeowners can do themselves for free.
#5 IRS & Social Security Impersonation
HIGH RISKCallers claiming to be from the IRS threaten arrest for unpaid taxes or say your Social Security number was used in criminal activity. They demand immediate payment by prepaid card or wire transfer, threatening police will arrive if you hang up.
#6 Solar Panel & Green Energy Scams
GROWINGTexas's abundant sunshine and the state's emphasis on energy independence have created a surge in solar installation robocalls. Many claim to offer "government rebates" or "free solar" — but end up locking homeowners into expensive long-term leases.
#7 Medicare & Health Insurance Robocalls
COMMONAs Texas's population ages, Medicare-related scam calls are increasing rapidly. Callers offer "free" medical supplies, genetic testing, or insurance plan comparisons. The real goal is to steal your Medicare number and bill for services never provided.
#8 Tech Support & Computer Virus Scams
COMMONCallers claim to be from Microsoft or a major internet provider saying your computer has a virus. They ask you to install remote access software, then either steal data, lock your computer for ransom, or charge hundreds for "repairs" to a non-existent problem.
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