Beware of these new scams

PORTLAND, Ore. - In our latest Consumer Alert, we focus on a scam that targets homeowners and business owners and charges them for something they can get on their own for much less.

Business Owners

Contractor Bill Lisignoli received a letter telling him it was time to renew his assumed business name, something all business owners do.

So he filled out the required information and even wrote a check for $100 before he realized something was off. He read the letter again and noticed it was not from a government agency.

Lisignoli called the Oregon Secretary of State's office and learned that he could easily renew his business license himself, and for half the cost.

According to the Secretary of State's office, business owners need to renew their assumed business name every two years and it can be done online for $50.  Click here for more information

Homeowners

A similar scam is targeting homeowners who have either recently purchased a home or refinanced their mortgage.

The person receives a letter telling them they have the right to a copy of their deed and can get it if they send in $69.50.

But beware - you always get a deed as part of the paperwork when you buy a home. If you need another copy, you can get it from the county you live in for a whole lot less.