Crime & Safety

Police Warn of Telephone Scams Targeting the Elderly

An alert from the City of Rye Nixle service.

Several incidents have been reported in which telephone calls are made, usually to elderly people - but not always - requesting that they wire money to a son, daughter, or other relative in a foreign country.

Typically, the caller will claim that the victim's son or grandson has been travelling overseas and has been involved in an accident or has been kidnapped, and needs money for medical treatment, for ransom, or to avoid being jailed. Some calls claim that the relative may be in imminent danger of physical harm. the circumstances described by the caller may vary, but the underlying theme is the same: a loved one is in danger and money must be wired to a third party immediately. 

Unfortunately, unsuspecting victims have fallen for the ruse, and have wired thousands of dollars to these scammers; upon receipt, it disappears. 

Residents should be wary of any anonymous call or text message seeking money, and should call the police if they receive such a call. We would also encourage those with elderly parents, who are most often victimized by these crimes, to ensure that they are aware of the scam. 

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