Norwalk police are urging residents to remain “hyper vigilant” after a local senior citizen fell victim to a sophisticated scam and lost $10,000. The scammer, posing as a representative from Microsoft, contacted the victim with claims of a software renewal issue that required immediate attention.
The scammer instructed the senior to withdraw $10,000 in cash from their bank account and hand it over to an individual who would arrive at their home to collect the payment. Believing the story, the victim complied with the instructions, resulting in a significant financial loss. Police noted that a similar scam targeted a Milford resident just last week.
Police Advisory: Common Scam Tactics
Norwalk police highlighted key tactics used by scammers in these schemes, including:
- Urgency: Scammers create a sense of panic, urging victims to act quickly to resolve a fabricated issue, such as a software renewal or account security breach.
- Cash Payments: Fraudsters often request cash transactions to avoid traceability, instructing victims to hand over money directly or deposit it into third-party accounts.
- Secrecy: Victims are frequently told to keep the situation confidential, preventing them from consulting with others who might recognize the scam.
Protecting Yourself from Scams
Norwalk police provided the following advice to help residents avoid falling victim:
- Verify the Caller: If someone claims to represent a company like Microsoft, hang up and contact the company directly using official customer service channels.
- Avoid Cash Transactions: Legitimate companies never ask for cash payments or personal delivery of money.
- Be Skeptical of Requests for Secrecy: Always consult with family members, friends, or local law enforcement if something seems suspicious.
- Never Share Personal Information: Refrain from providing banking details, passwords, or personal identifiers over the phone or email.
A Growing Concern
Tech support scams are on the rise, targeting vulnerable populations such as seniors who may be less familiar with modern scam tactics. According to the FBI, tech scams resulted in over $347 million in reported losses in the United States in 2023, with elderly individuals accounting for a significant portion of the victims.
Norwalk police are continuing to investigate these incidents and encourage residents to report any suspicious activity. “Residents should remain vigilant against software or computer scams, especially those involving fees, cash payments, and secrecy,” the police emphasized.
If you or someone you know has been targeted, report the incident to local authorities immediately.