VA Issues Fraud Alert

Veterans should be aware of a marketing scam targeting callers trying to reach the Dept. of Veterans Affairs (VA) National Call Center or GI Bill Call Center.  A marketing company has established two fraudulent numbers that differ from the two official VA call center numbers by one digit. If the fraudulent number is dialed by mistake, the answering party will offer a gift card and try to obtain personal and financial information, including credit card information, from the caller. The answering party may even transfer the caller to the VA after the caller’s information is obtained. The numbers to be avoided are: (800) 872-1000 (the VA GI Bill Call Center is (800) 827-1000) and (888) 442-4511 (the VA GI Bill Call Center number is (888) 442-4551). VA has notified law enforcement authorities to address this situation.
Submitted by Andy GERO

Andy Gero is a life member of the VFW, Post 1614 and the American Legion Post 288 in La Crescenta. He may be reached through the CV Weekly, (818) 248-2740, or writing the Crescenta Valley Weekly at 3800 La Crescenta, Ave., Suite 101, La Crescenta, CA 91214.