Green Dot/Money Gram Scams

All,
The  message below is from Inspector Maguire, Commanding Officer of the 109th Precinct.  Please read and forward his message to everyone on your distribution lists, your family and friends. Ask them to forward as well.  We need to give this our best effort in informing as many people as possible. At our council meeting last week the Inspector informed the members that becasue of the sophistication of the software and apps many people have fallen victim to this scam.
Thank you.
Message from Inspector Maguire:

Tonight we had a 75 year old male South East Asian complainant, who was called by an unidentified male, who identified himself as a IRS Agent. The caller demanded payment of $4000.00 dollars for back taxes. Since the victim was skeptical, the male caller stated he would have the police call him back to verify this information.

The complainant received a second call with the Caller ID displaying the 109th Precinct’s telephone number.The male idetified himself as INSPECTOR BRIAN MAGUIRE!! The caller stated that if the money was not paid, a warrant would be out for his arrest. Thankfully the complainant did not fall victim to this scam.

Please Advise everyone about this scam.

The payment is normally demanded in form of green dot cards or Money Grams. The scammer may direct you to call another telephone #, which will be answered by another partner in the scam.

Computer Apps can be purchased, where the caller’s true phone number is disguised, such as the 109th Precinct, NYPD, 911, Con Ed, etc.

Scammers may claim a loved one is being held against their will, or been involved in an accident and payment is needed to gain their freedom.

Scammers may claim a grandson or relative has been locked up in another country and needs bail money.

Scammers may identify themselves as CON ED, threatening to shut off power unless an immediate payment is made with green dots. If you think call sounds suspicious call number listed on your bill.

Scammers mat tell you you have won the lottery or some type of sweepstakes, and money needed to claim winnings or for taxes on prize. If you have to pay for a prize” you won” , YOU DIDN’T WIN!!

DO NOT CALL THESE SCAMMERS BACK ON TELEPHONE NUMBERS THEY PROVIDE. ITS ANOTHER LAYER TO THE SCAM.

The NYPD does not solicit money.

All these crime prevention tips and more were available in the January 109th Precinct Community Newsletter. If you or anyone you know is interested in receiving this newsletter, please contact 109th Precinct Community Affairs at MOONDY.SOOHOO@NYPD.ORG

Thank You

Inspector Brian Maguire

Commanding Officer, 109th Precinct

37-05 Union Street

Flushing, N.Y., 11354

718-321-2250

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