WAYNESBORO – The Waynesboro Police Department reported a potential scam. The complainant reported that his mother had been contacted by an individual claiming to be an officer with the Federal Trade Commission. The scammer alleged that inappropriate content had been found on her computer and that she owned two properties in Texas with legal issues.
The scammers instructed her not to disclose their conversation to anyone and claimed they would help resolve the fabricated problems. They also stated they would be calling her every two hours that night to “check on her.” The complainant provided paperwork containing notes his mother had written, including details about her bank account.
While it was unclear if she had shared any financial information, the officer advised him to contact the bank to place a fraud alert on any debit or credit cards.
Additionally, the complainant mentioned an unusual message appearing on his mother’s computer screen. The officer recommended taking the device to a professional to check for potential viruses or malware.
Scammers often target elderly individuals, using fear tactics to gain access to personal and financial information. The community is urged to remain vigilant against such scams.
If anyone receives suspicious calls requesting personal or financial details, they should immediately disconnect the call and report the incident, police said. If financial information has been shared, contacting the bank and credit card providers as soon as possible is crucial. Staying informed and cautious can help prevent fraud and protect vulnerable individuals.
