KENNEBUNK, ME — Police are warning residents about a surge in technology-related scams targeting device users.
The Kennebunk Police Department reported an uptick in fraudulent schemes that begin with alerts claiming a person’s iPad, computer, iPhone or other devices have been compromised.
The scams typically arrive as fake “Microsoft Alert” or “Apple Alert” messages through memos, form letters, security notices or text messages, according to police.
Scammers tell victims their devices have been hacked and often claim child pornography was found on the device or that someone gained access to bank accounts, police said.
In one case, when a victim said they would contact their bank, the scammer provided a phone number that connected to another scammer and sent a fraudulent fraud alert letter appearing to be from the bank, police said.
The scammer also texted a fake bank identification card with a photo to the victim, according to police.
Scammers may attempt to get victims to wire funds to “fix” their devices or accounts, set up fake escrow accounts or provide access to bank accounts, police said.
Victims are instructed to stay on the phone while going to the bank and to tell tellers they need money for home improvements or medical bills, according to police.
In a recent incident, a potential victim was contacted by someone claiming they would be arrested for missing jury duty, police said.
Police said neither Microsoft nor Apple contact customers in this manner and that banks will call customers and ask them to come in person to discuss issues.
Residents should never disclose banking information, account numbers, assets or allow remote access to computers or devices, police said.
Police also warned against providing Social Security numbers, birth dates, or making payments through wire transfers, Bitcoin, gold or gift cards.
Senior citizens are most often targeted in these scams, which can involve tens of thousands of dollars, according to police.
