NORTH READING — Chief Michael Murphy and the North Reading Police Department wish to warn the community about scams that target senior citizens, and would like to offer tips to avoid becoming the victim.
In the so-called “grandparent scam,” a scammer calls the targeted victim and posses as a grandchild or another relative and reports that they have been arrested and need money to be released by local authorities. The scammer urges the senior not to tell anyone else in the family.
The scammer requests bail payment in cash or gift card, to be given to a person posing as a courier or bail bondsman who arrives at the victim’s home. Or, the scammer requests money be transferred via a wire service, such as Western Union.
In a variation of this scam, a second scammer posing as a law enforcement official calls the senior to reinforce the bogus story.
The North Reading Police state that government agencies, including law enforcement, never contact the public demanding payment by wire transfer or by prepaid cards. In every case, once the money is transferred or the debit card number is given, the money is usually lost forever and can not be recovered.
While it is extremely difficult to recover these funds residents and community members should always report these instances of scams to the police.
North Reading Police remind residents that any arrest or detainment of relatives can be confirmed with the arresting police department or through the local district court clerk’s office.
“We encourage residents and community members, especially our seniors, to remain aware of these scams and take steps to protect themselves and their finances,” said Chief Murphy. “Residents who believe they are the target of a scam should call the North Reading Police Department immediately.”
Avoiding the ‘grandparent scam’
If someone calls or sends a message claiming to be a family member or a friend desperate for money:
- Resist the urge to act immediately, no matter how dramatic the story is.
- Verify the person’s identity by asking questions that a stranger could not answer.
- Call a phone number for your family member or friend that you know to be genuine.
- Check the story out with someone else in your family or circle of friends, even if you’ve been told to keep it a secret.
- Do not wire money or send a check or money order by overnight delivery or courier.
- Report possible fraud at ftc.gov/complaint or by calling 1-877-FTC-HELP.
Anyone who has questions or believes they may have fallen victim to a scam, please contact North Reading Police Department at (978) 664-3131.
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