COPS WARN OF NEW…

Why This Scam Is Spreading

Experts say scammers are becoming more advanced, using publicly available personal information from social media to make their stories more convincing.

They may reference real addresses, relatives’ names, or recent purchases to build trust.

How to Protect Yourself

Law enforcement advises:

• Never send money or financial information to someone who contacts you unexpectedly.
• Hang up and call the official organization directly using a verified number.
• Avoid sharing personal details over the phone.
• Talk to older family members about common scam tactics.
• Report suspicious calls to local authorities or consumer protection agencies.

If You’ve Already Been Targeted

If you suspect you’ve been scammed, act quickly. Contact your bank immediately, report the incident to local police, and monitor your accounts for unusual activity.

The faster you respond, the better your chances of limiting the damage.

The Bottom Line

Scammers rely on fear, urgency, and secrecy. The most powerful defense is pause.

Take a breath. Verify the story. Call a trusted contact.

Because when it comes to scams, a few seconds of caution can prevent months — or years — of financial and emotional fallout.