'Payday Loan' Scams Reported

Several Strongsville residents have reported being victims of Payday Loan scams in recent weeks.

One man told police Sept. 14 that Payday Loans took money out of his account -- and he has never even dealt with the company.

Another reported in March that he was told he had a balance of $496 on a cash advance he had actually paid off.

And a woman told police in early September that a caller wanted her to go to Walmart to send money for a loan she had allegedly taken -- but didn't.

Most of the trouble can be traced to Internet fraud, according to Detective Lt. John Janowski.

Janowski said criminals are applying for a Payday Loan -- a cash advance -- online, using someone else's information.

When the loans aren't repaid, the company turns them over to a collection agency, which then calls the victims and demands payment.

"A lot of times, it's collection agencies that are calling," Janowski said. "Usually, the people didn't take out the loan, but they're being asked for payment."

He said the scam has been going on for some time.