Southington PD Warns Of 'Fake Emergency' Scams

SOUTHINGTON, CT — Local police issued a warning to the community Tuesday reminding them to be wary of so-called "fake emergency" scam artists.

These situations, the Southington Police Department said, usually involve a fake "authority figure" (doctor, police officer, lawyer, etc.) claiming to be working on behalf of a family member and seeking money from the family.

Often, the caller presents an "emergency" scenario that requires the immediate wiring of money to the caller, police said.

Those receiving such calls or e-mails must be vigilant, police said, adding that, even, these scammers often pose as family members themselves.

"If someone calls or sends a message claiming to be a family or a friend desperate for money, don't trust the voice on the line — even if it sounds like your family member or friend," reads an alert from police. "Scammers are good at faking it."

Police said those receiving such calls must, simply, hang up if it sounds fishy or ask the caller for personal, or family information such as what their dog breed is or where did they spend Thanksgiving.

Also, those targeted should call someone else in the family or circle of friends about the situation to confirm what is going on.

Once fraud is suspected, they should report it to the local police.