Crime Prevention

Senior citizens are often targeted by criminals because they are viewed as trusting, financially stable, and less likely to report crimes. Fraud schemes continue to evolve, using phone calls, text messages, emails, social media, and even in-person deception to steal money and personal information.

The good news is that awareness is one of the strongest tools for prevention.

Scammers may pretend to be:

• Government agencies such as the IRS or Social Security
• Utility companies
• Banks or credit card companies
• Tech support representatives
• Law enforcement officers
• Family members in distress

These callers often create urgency by claiming:

• Money is owed immediately
• Accounts will be frozen
• Utilities will be shut off
• A loved one has been arrested or injured

Remember:

• Legitimate agencies do not demand payment through gift cards, cryptocurrency, or wire transfers.
• Law enforcement will never ask for payment to avoid arrest.
• Never give personal information over the phone unless you initiated the call.

A caller pretends to be a grandchild or relative needing emergency money for bail, medical treatment, or travel expenses. The scammer may already know family names gathered from social media.

Before sending money:

• Contact the family member directly
• Verify the story with another relative
• Be suspicious of requests for secrecy

Fraudulent emails and websites may:

• Ask you to “verify” passwords or banking information
• Claim you won a prize or lottery
• Offer fake investment opportunities
• Contain links that install harmful software

Safety tips:

• Do not click suspicious links
• Never provide passwords through email
• Use strong, unique passwords
• Keep antivirus software updated

Criminals build emotional relationships online through dating sites or social media before asking for money.

Warning signs include:

• Requests for money, gift cards, or cryptocurrency
• Excuses for never meeting in person
• Stories involving overseas travel, military deployment, or medical emergencies

Scammers may appear after storms or disasters offering quick repairs at discounted prices.

Protect yourself by:

• Getting written estimates
• Verifying licenses and insurance
• Never paying the full amount upfront
• Avoiding high-pressure sales tactics

• Slow down and verify information
• Never feel pressured to act immediately
• Discuss major financial decisions with trusted family members
• Monitor bank and credit card statements regularly
• Shred documents containing personal information
• Register phone numbers on the National Do Not Call Registry

• Stop communication immediately
• Contact your bank or credit card company
• Report the incident to the Pittsville Police Department
• Preserve emails, text messages, receipts, and phone numbers
• Warn family members and friends about the scam

Fraud crimes are often underreported because victims may feel embarrassed. Criminals rely on that silence. Reporting suspicious activity can help protect others in the community.
If you suspect fraud or believe you have been victimized, contact the Pittsville Police Department or your local law enforcement agency.