The Lower Heidelberg Police Department is warning all residents, especially the elderly to be aware of telephone scams. The scams include the “IRS Scam,” “Grandparent Scam,” “Computer Virus Scam”, “Arrest Warrant Scam”, and “Electric Company Scam.”
IRS Scam – Victim is contacted by mail saying they owe back taxes to the IRS and that they need to call a certain phone number for further instruction. There they are then instructed to pay the back taxes using gift cards or else they will be arrested.
Grandparent Scam – Victim is told their grandchild has been involved in an accident and that the victim must pay a certain amount to cover the medical bills. The payment is asked for in gift cards or Western Union.
Computer Virus Scam – Victim is contacted and told there is a virus on their computer and that in order to get the virus off their computer they need to pay a certain amount for it to be removed. The payment is asked for in gift cards or Western Union.
Arrest Warrant Scam – Victim is contacted and told that there is a warrant for their arrest, and in order for the warrant to be canceled they need to pay a fine. The payment is asked for in gift cards or Western Union.
Electric Company – Victim is contacted and told that their electric bill has not been paid and services will be shut off immediately if payment is not received. The payment is asked for in gift cards or Western Union.
Best practices to avoid being victimized:
1- Never send money to unknown person(s) calling you. (If payment is requested via, Western Union, Green Dot Cards, or Gift Cards, it’s a SCAM)
2 – Never give out your personal information over the telephone.
3- If you have any elderly friends or relatives, please take a few minutes to educate them on how not to become a victim of these scams.
The individuals who perpetrate these scams are very convincing. If you suspect that you are being targeted, PLEASE contact the police immediately.