Scams return

Take time to research before sending money, divulging information

It’s a ploy con artists use to tug on a person’s heartstrings — especially the elderly — claiming to be a relative and in need of money.

According to Marion Police Chief Josh Whitwell, scammers are hitting local people again, calling and e-mailing residents, claiming to be a relative.

A common ruse is claiming to be a grandchild, using the name of an actual grandchild of the person they’re calling. They’ll tell the victim that they’re in another city or another country and need money to get out of jail or to get home. They’ll ask the victim to wire money to them.

“People need to take time to do some research to make sure it’s the truth,” Whitwell said. “If it is a real call for help, the grandchild or whomever can sit in jail for another hour while you check it out.”

If in doubt, call the police department at (620) 382-2651 for assistance in determining if it’s a real emergency.

“When the money is sent, there’s not much we can do,” Whitwell said.

Another scam is an elderly person receiving a phone call from someone claiming to be able to assist them in receiving their Social Security checks. The caller will ask for the victim’s Social Security number and other personal information.

The Social Security office will not call recipients. All correspondence is done by mail.

“Never divulge information to someone you don’t know,” Whitwell advises. “Again, be on the side of caution.”

County attorney Susan Robson also has reported that her office has received phone calls from county residents reporting the same kinds of calls.

Law enforcement cannot do much after information has been provided to thieves and money has been wired. Whitwell said he received an e-mail supposedly from an acquaintance, asking for money to return to the U.S.

“I knew it wasn’t my friend and continued e-mail contact with them,” Whitwell said. “They must have figured out I wasn’t going to send any money because they quit contacting me.”