Main Street Bank customers have reported receiving letters in the mail urging them to call a number about a time-sensitive matter about their mortgage, in many cases citing a home warranty coverage about to expire. You are right to question any communication you receive like this, especially when something just doesn’t seem right. After reviewing many copies of these letters and notification, we can confirm that this is a scam. Our advice to customers – disregard and get rid of these notices when you receive them.
What do these letters look like and what do they say?
These letters may come from Home Warranty Direct, or other similar companies. Some of these letters will reference the name of a mortgage lender.
The letter asks the recipient to respond to the notice by a certain date, and warns that failure to respond could result in a potential loss of coverage. Typically, whenever threatening language or undue urgency is used, then it is likely the communication is coming from a scammer.
This scam is especially convincing because it is sent through the mail. These letters may look similar to the example below.
Who is sending these home warranty notices?
There is a disclaimer at the bottom of the letter stating that it comes from “Home Warranty Direct” in this sample, but could also cite a different company name. We recommend always searching for information on any company you are unfamiliar with to find reviews and Better Business Bureau information about its legitimacy.
How did the senders get my information?
At Main Street Bank, we’re committed to protecting our customers’ personal information. We do not sell or distribute any private and non-public information to non-affiliate third parties.
However, some information about mortgages, regardless of what lender you work with with, is public record. That’s how scammers like this can obtain your contact information. Often, you can tell that a scam is likely when the account number that is referenced does not match your loan account number with your financial institution.
What happens if I call the number on the letter?
Calling the number listed on the letters may connect you with a real person, or it may direct you to an automated recording. In either case, it is important that you do not give out your personal information. Doing so could result in terrible consequences in relation to your privacy and finances.
What should I do if I receive this letter?
The best course of action is to disregard the home warranty notice. You may dispose of it the same way you would any other piece of junk mail. We always recommend shredding any mail that contains personal information for extra security. In addition, you may contact us directly if you are in doubt about the origin of any communication you receive that references Main Street Bank.