Hunters, Anglers at Risk of Scams Through Online License Purchases

October 11, 2019

HARRISBURG – Rep. Carl Walker Metzgar (R-Somerset/Bedford) warns hunters and anglers to beware of scam websites that offer licenses. These websites could steal consumers’ money, as well as their personal information that could be used for identity or financial theft.

There are only two ways to purchase a license: trough the state-run portal called the Outdoor Shop or in person from a retail license issuing agent. The Pennsylvania Game Commission (PGC) has received reports of hunters and trappers who attempted to purchase a license through unaffiliated vendor websites that mimic the look of the Outdoor Shop and may offer a “simplified” purchasing process, but never received their licenses.

“The only difference made by using a third-party website to purchase a license is an added fee and the risk of identity theft,” said Metzgar. “Hunters, trappers and anglers should only purchase licenses through the Outdoor Shop or through approved brick-and-mortar license retailers. This will ensure they receive their licenses and that their sensitive personal information is not misused.”

Anglers purchasing a Pennsylvania Fish and Boat Commission (PFBC) license through the Outdoor Shop immediately receives a printable version. Hunters or trappers purchasing a license online get a confirmation email from the PGC and the license is mailed within two weeks.

State officials are asking anyone who finds a suspicious website that does not link to the state site to call the PFBC at 877-707-4085 or the PGC at 717-787-2084. Victims of a scam site should notify the Pennsylvania Attorney General’s Office by completing a Scams Complaint Form.

Representative Carl Walker Metzgar
69th District
Pennsylvania House of Representatives
Media Contact: Kevin DiGuiseppe
717.260.6419 (office), 610.937.4679 (cell)
Kdiguiseppe@pahousegop.com
RepMetzgar.com