Photo: Getty Images
METHUEN, Mass (WBZNewsRadio) - Police in Methuen are out with a warning after an alarming increase in the number of scam and fraud attempts made against the community in recent months.
In the last 90 days alone, the Methuen Police Department has responded to 123 reports of fraud or attempted fraud. Last month, the department took reports on six scams that had victimized residents in Methuen, along with other fraud cases. The increase is significant, with just 40 cases of fraud attempts reported back in January and February of this year.
"Fraud and scam attempts are becoming more and more common in our community and around the region, and we believe that educating the public to help residents avoid falling for scams is one of the best ways we can prevent this nefarious type of crime, which often targets senior residents," said Police Chief Scott McNamara. "We would like to encourage all residents to familiarize themselves with tips from the Federal Trade Commission to help avoid falling for common scam tactics, and we also encourage younger residents to speak to their parents and other seniors about these issues."
There are several tips offered by the Federal Trade Commission to help avoid falling victim to a scam.
Keep in mind, scammers want to earn your trust. They'll often pretend to be from an organization you're familiar with, or even use a real name like the Social Security Administration. Once they've told you who they are, they'll typically either explain one of two things; there is either some sort of problem, or there's some sort of prize to be had.
Scammers will almost always pressure you to act immediately and will do everything to keep you on the line. They may threaten to arrest you, sue you, take away your business license or your driver's license. Any type of threat should be considered a red flag.
Some scammers will tell you they've got a family member detained or arrested. They'll ask you to provide information and any fees associated with an arrest etc. Methuen police said any resident who receives a threat like this can call the department to confirm the information. As a reminder, neither police, nor the courts will ever request payment of bail money by bitcoin, wire transfer, or gift cards.
These criminals will always ask you to pay them in a specific way, either through a money order, through bitcoin, or via gift cards. Some scammers will even send you a check, ask you deposit it, and send them the cash. Unfortunately, these checks always turn out to be fake.
If you receive an email or text message with a specific link, it's still best not to click on any links, even if you're familiar with the company. Instead, the FTC recommends contacting the company directly. Never call a number the scammer may have given you or the number from your caller ID.
"One of the best ways to avoid falling victim to a scam is simply to slow down, take a deep breath, and consult with trusted friends, family members, or police," said Chief McNamara. "Scammers often attempt to isolate and rush their victims, and a key to not falling for their tricks is avoiding their efforts to isolate and hurry you."
Follow WBZ NewsRadio: Facebook | Twitter | Instagram | iHeartmedia App | TikTok