Many local police departments are again receiving reports of scammers saying they are affiliated with a law enforcement agency.
From the Cumberland, Maine Police Department:
The scammers call the victim and convincingly tell them that a family member has been arrested and they need funds for lawyers and/or bail money. The victim is usually requested to go to their bank, withdraw money and place the funds in unique packaging to disguise it from the pickup drivers. The scammers then use an unwitting rideshare driver to pick up the money/package and deliver it to another location outside the city.
We want to remind all readers that NO legitimate law enforcement agency, law firm, or business will demand cash by phone and send drivers to collect. No legitimate business or agency will ever demand immediate payment in gift cards, either. In past scams, the bank attempted to safeguard the victim’s money, but the scammers had provided the victim with specific instructions about not disclosing information to anyone.
If you do receive a similar phone call, e-mail, or message, follow these steps:
1. Hang-up
2. Contact the family member in question directly.
3. Do not put cash in envelopes or packages for anyone to pick up from your home: these alleged accidents or an arrest of family members are fictitious and are part of the scam.
4. Call your local law enforcement agency.
Here’s more information from the FTC.
Latest Local Central Maine News
