WETHERSFIELD — Police are warning residents about a phone scam in which callers impersonate retailers and government agents to steal money from victims.
The Wethersfield Police Department said scammers call victims claiming to represent major retailers like Amazon.
The caller warns that criminals have taken over the victim’s account and are using it for illegal activities.
Victims are told they will be transferred to a government agent investigating the account.
The fake agent claims criminals have also compromised the victim’s bank account and have access to all their money.
The scammer tells victims all their money could be stolen unless they follow specific instructions.
Victims are instructed to withdraw cash from their bank and give it to a courier for protection.
The caller claims the victim’s mobile device and computer may be compromised and warns against telling anyone about the situation.
Police said both the retailer representative and government agent are scammers, and no illegal activity has occurred on victims’ accounts.
The department advised residents to be aware that scammers use fear and urgency to trick people into making impulsive decisions.
Police said residents should be suspicious if someone asks them to keep information secret from family or spouses.
The department emphasized that real government agents or customer service representatives will never ask for cash over the phone.
