Crime & Safety

Police Warn About 'Grandparent Scam' In Waterford

Financial scams among seniors have increased approximately 388% in recent years, police said.

WATERFORD, CT — The Waterford Police Department has issued a warning to residents regarding scams leading into the holiday season.

The department posted the following on Facebook:

Financial Scams among Seniors have increased approximately 388% in recent years. Over the next few weeks we'll highlight some of the more common scams impacting our community.

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The "Grandparent Scam" often targets Seniors by phone, pretending to be a loved one and asking for money for some type of emergency. It should be a clue if they ask you not to contact family or the police. Here are a few tips to avoid becoming a victim.

> Verify by calling the family member on a known phone number

Find out what's happening in Waterfordfor free with the latest updates from Patch.

> Do not give or confirm personal information

> Never send money by gift cards, wire transfers, cryptocurrency, or provide banking information

> Contact your local police Department

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