Arlington Seniors to Receive Scam Warning Cards

ARLINGTON, MA—Despite tax time being in our rearview mirror, senior citizens are often the victims of common money transfer scams.

The Arlington police department is working to help seniors become more aware of these scams. Police have partnered with the Arlington Elder Abuse Task Force to create STOP! cards for senior citizens, according to a release Monday.

"Unfortunately, there are people out there who prey on some of our most trusting citizens through scams like these," Chief Frederick Ryan said in a statement. "Our hope is that by making our seniors aware of some of the most common scams that we've seen, we can prevent them from becoming a victim and losing money to these crimes."

Police detailed some of the most common scans that often target seniors.

• IRS Impostors: Callers contact you demanding immediate payment for back taxes.
• Arrested Relative: Scammers contact you claiming that a friend or relative has been arrested and needs bail money.
• Sweepstakes: Someone calls to notify you that you have won a contest or sweepstakes and must send money to collect any winnings.
• Tech Support: Someone contacts you claiming your computer needs repairs and to send money for service.

Police urged residents to contact the Arlington Police Department at 781-643-1212 if they are ever unsure of a scam.

Photo Credit: Arlington Police Department