Middletown Twp. Police Warn of In-Person Elder Fraud Increase

MIDDLETOWN TOWNSHIP, PA — The Middletown Township Police Department is reporting a concerning trend in elder fraud cases within the community.

Recently, there have been numerous instances where perpetrators arrange in-person meetings with victims to collect money, police said.

Police said the incidents typically involve multiple phone calls before the meet-up, during which scammers convince individuals to pay them.

Police said that meeting with a perpetrator adds a significant level of concern for those targeted.

The Federal Bureau of Investigation defines in-person elder fraud as scammers visiting homes or targeting seniors in public to steal money, property, or identity. Common tactics include fraudulent home repairs,

Before a meet-up, there are typically numerous phone calls between the scammer and the victim, where they are ultimately able to convince the person to pay them, police said.

From FBI.gov, common tactics include fraudulent home repairs, "grandparent" bail scams, fake charity solicitations, and impersonating utility workers or government officials. Perpetrators often use high-pressure tactics to "force immediate, panicked action."

Police said that any resident who receives a phone call that is "high-pressure, demanding of immediate action, and invokes an emotional response" should hang up immediately.

Police urge residents to talk to their elderly relatives about the scam.

The Middletown Township Police Department said it is willing to visit senior living communities, senior centers, and more to speak about the scam.