Salisbury Police Warn Seniors of Scams

From fly-by-night contractors to bank official imposters, have seen the gamut of crooks out to scam senior citizens.

The elderly are a segment of the population that is particularly vulnerable to crime, often because they are so trusting, warned the over 65-crowd who attended on Sunday at

Palanski said a recent telephone scam in the township involved a crook, claiming to be a New York police detective, who told an elderly resident his grandson had been arrested and would go to jail unless he sent them $500.  

Some scams have involve people impersonating bank or IRS officials who telephone residents and say they want to confirm Social Security or bank account numbers. Other scammers tell the resident he has won a sizable cash prize, but must first send $200 to secure it.

"If it sounds too good to be true, it probably is," Palansky said.

provided the following safety tips to help prevent becoming a crime victim:

• Check your bank statements every month.
• Do not allow strangers into your home who claim to need to use the bathroom or want a drink of water. 
• Keep your money and valuables out of sight in your house.
• Use ATMs during the day. If you must use an ATM at night, find one in a well-lit area that is not isolated.
• After you withdraw cash, immediately put your cash in your purse or pocket. Do not stand there and count it.
• Do not place your purse in a grocery cart.
• Lock your car doors. Do not keep valuables in your car, including GPS devices and laptops.
• Do not advertise that you are away on vacation. Get a neighbor or friend to take in your mail and check your house.