Phone scam targets Alabama College Students

MONTGOMERY, Ala. (AP) — The police chief at Alabama State University is warning of a scam targeting students. Police Chief James Graboys says it starts with a contact on Instagram. The scammer offers a chance to make extra money. Then the scammer gets the person to buy a cell phone in their name in exchange for some cash. The police chief says there is nothing illegal about buying a phone for someone else, but the scammer can use the phone to access the person's account and identifying information. That could lead to someone misusing the person's identity. The police chief says the person who signs the phone contract is also responsible for the phone and the monthly charges.