Imagine your loved one calls. Their phone number pops up on your phone. Your person tells you that they are in some dire situation and need you to provide funds. It was your loved one's number and voice so it must be legit, right? Well...maybe not.

 

You’re asked for personal information

A courier/ representative will come to your home to get your payment

You’re asked to wire money to somebody you don’t know

The caller does not want you to hang up as you’re given instructions to log on to a computer

You’re told to buy gifts cards as a form of payment

Limit your information online

Secure your social media accounts to only share with friends and family

If a situation doesn’t feel right, slow it down. Pause and make sure a criminal is not pressuring you

Create a code word or phrase with your loved ones to confirm their identity

If you receive a call asking for money from a loved one, tell them you will call them back. Hang up and call them yourself to ensure it is genuinely your loved one you are speaking with.

 

If you feel you may be the victim of a theft, immediately contact law enforcement.

 

Thieves often target the elderly. Oceanside neighborhood policing team officers have made strides to educate our most vulnerable by sharing prevention information with our senior communities and centers. Please make sure to educate your loved ones to ensure they do not become a victim.