Police in Colerain say there’s been an increase in extortion attempts targeting older adults. In the last week, detectives investigated more than four new cases, according to a township spokeswoman.
“It’s unfortunately part of a bigger trend across the Cincinnati area,” said Helen Tracey-Noren, a communications specialist for Colerain Township.
These cases usually involve fraudulent phone calls where someone impersonates a loved one and pretends to be in danger. If you receive a call you believe might be a scam , officials gave these tips:
- Don’t pick up the phone — especially if you are not expecting a call from a different area code. Places such as hospitals, insurance companies and police will leave a voicemail if it’s important.
- If you do answer, verify the caller is your loved one. Ask the person details only the real person would know, without giving away personal information.
- Hang up the phone and call the person who is supposedly in danger on a phone number you have for them.
- Never give the person money or agree to meet them somewhere.