Groton Police Warn Residents Not To Fall Victim To Recent Scams

GROTON, CT — In light of recent scams that have been reported to the department, Groton City Police remind residents that legitimate businesses and agencies do not request someone purchase gift cards as payment for any type of service.

Police said on Facebook many are still falling victim to IRS tax scams, during which victims are told they owe money to the IRS and it must be paid promptly through a gift card or wire transfer. According to police, the caller will often become hostile and insulting during such calls, and will often threaten victims with arrest. (To sign up for Groton breaking news alerts and more, click here.)

Another recent scam involves people claiming to be from local or government police agencies who threaten arrest if gift cards are not purchased to pay fines or bail.

"If you are in doubt about the legitimacy of anyone representing themselves as an IRS agent or a police officer, you may call that agency directly," police said on Facebook. "Do not rely upon the number given to you by the person on the phone. Protect yourself from being a victim of fraud."

Check the City of Groton Police Department Facebook page for further information.

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