The Trumbull Police Department would like to warn the public about a recent increase of scams
targeting senior citizens. Even though the police may be made aware of these types of cases,
they can be difficult to investigate because many times the suspects are in another country or
quickly leave the scene where very little suspect information is available. Also, due to
the complexity of these cases, the victims most likely will not get their money or valuables
back.

There are numerous types of scams, and a few are described as follows:

• The caller claimed to be a family member that has an illness or was arrested. This caller
  will put urgency into helping them and tell the victim not to contact anyone, especially
  the police.
• The caller may claim to be a law enforcement official that has custody of the victim’s
  family member and would demand bail or funds for their release.
• The caller may claim to be law enforcement stating that the victim’s Social Security
  Number or Bank Accounts have been “compromised.” The caller will ask personal
  information to “verify” the identity of the person they are calling, getting the victim’s
  information including Social Security and bank account numbers.

• Random emails or texts with an urgent message are sent stating that one’s Social
  Security number, bank account, or any other personal accounts have been
  “compromised” and needs immediate attention.
• Distraction scams where the suspect(s) “randomly” show up at the home of elderly
  residents pretending to be from a utility company, and then try to lure their way into
  the house. Once inside, one suspect will distract the victim, while another suspect will
  steal valuables.

If you receive a call you believe to be a scam:

• Resist the urge to act immediately no matter how dramatic the story is.
• Verify the caller’s identity. Ask questions that a stranger would not be able to answer.
  Check with a family member to see if the information is true.
• Do not send cash, gift cards, or conduct money transfers. Once the scammer gets the
  money, it’s gone!
• Do not give personal or bank account information by email, over the phone, or by
  logging into bank accounts as directed by the caller.
• Do not respond to random calls, emails, or text messages that contact you for personal
  information. Find the contact information on your own to verify the legitimacy of any
  random solicitation.

Please keep the following in mind:

• Do not let strangers into your home that have arrived unannounced and request access
  inside.
• Police agencies do not contact families for bail money.

This press release is made possible by: