FRAUD ALERT

If you receive a recorded phone message from someone claiming to be or telling you to call “Maine Housing Authority” to help you refinance your mortgage, it may be a scam.  These calls are not from the state agency, Maine State Housing Authority (MaineHousing). MaineHousing does not make automated calls offering foreclosure assistance.

The recorded call may tell you to call the “Maine Housing Authority” for help, and provides an 800 number similar to but not the same as a toll free Maine State Housing Authority (MaineHousing) number. These calls are not from MaineHousing, the state agency.

Do not be fooled by your caller ID. Using computer software in a process called “Vishing”, scam artists can make it appear the call is coming from a legitimate organization or is going to a legitimate organization, even when it is not.

If you receive such a call do not give out any personal information.

If you have paid money to a company for financial assistance and are worried it’s a scam, contact the Office of the Maine Attorney General at 1-800-436-2131 or 626 8849 to file a complaint.

If you are having trouble making mortgage payments or are facing foreclosure, see the preventing foreclosure section of our website at http://www.mainehousing.org/EDUForeclosure.aspx.

Or contact a HUD approved housing counselor. A list of counselors can be found at http://www.mainehousing.org/EDUForeclosureCounselors.aspx.