MONTGOMERY COUNTY, Md. (7News) — A new scam targeting residents in Maryland, especially seniors, has resulted in more arrests since its discovery.
Authorities are raising awareness about this growing scam that is affecting people nationwide, but particularly impacting our region. Montgomery County has reported at least 20 residents falling victim to this scam, with more likely affected.
Signs of the Scam
Montgomery County State Attorney John McCarthy emphasized that this scam can target anyone, regardless of age or demographic. The pattern of the scam involves alarming pop-up messages on computers and convincing stories designed to manipulate individuals into handing over money or assets.
In a recent case involving an 82-year-old woman, a message claiming that her data had been stolen by Russians led her to give away nearly a million dollars in gold bars to scammers posing as FBI agents.
Additional Victims
Another incident involved a 74-year-old man in Bethesda who fell prey to a similar email strategy, resulting in $1.1 million in gold bar purchases over multiple transactions. Fortunately, he alerted authorities after learning about the scam through news reports.
Why Gold?
Authorities believe scammers ask for gold because it can appear as a legitimate and common transaction. The purchase of gold may not raise suspicion compared to other forms of payment, making it easier for scammers to deceive victims.
Prevention and Awareness
With numerous individuals being targeted by this scam, law enforcement urges those who suspect they have been victimized to contact the Montgomery County Police Department. Additionally, resources are available for preventing fraud and cybercrime to protect oneself and loved ones.
Staying informed and vigilant is crucial in safeguarding against these types of financial scams. By understanding the tactics used by scammers and knowing how to report suspicious activities, individuals can better protect themselves from falling victim to such schemes.
