COLERAIN TWP., Ohio — Police in Colerain say there's been an increase in extortion attempts targeting older adults. In the last week, detectives investigated more than four new cases, according to a township spokeswoman.
"It's unfortunately part of a bigger trend across the Cincinnati area," said Helen Tracey-Noren, a communications specialist for Colerain Township.
These cases usually involve fraudulent phone calls where someone impersonates a loved one and pretends to be in danger. If you receive a call you believe might be a scam, officials gave these tips:
- Don’t pick up the phone — especially if you are not expecting a call from a different area code. Places such as hospitals, insurance companies and police will leave a voicemail if it’s important.
- If you do answer, verify the caller is your loved one. Ask the person details only the real person would know, without giving away personal information.
- Hang up the phone and call the person who is supposedly in danger on a phone number you have for them.
- Never give the person money or agree to meet them somewhere.
The Colerain Township Police Department’s Investigative Unit has reported an uptick in fraudulent calls targeted at older adults with the goal of extorting money. Protect yourself with these tips: https://t.co/ppzWcRvkv4 @WCPO @WLWT @FOX19 @Local12 @Enquirer pic.twitter.com/DU2Qy31dtf
— Colerain Police (@ColerainPolice) February 6, 2024
If you think you have been a victim, please call the Colerain Township Police Department at (513) 321-COPS (2677) or the Hamilton County Prosecutor’s Office Elder Justice Unit at (513) 946-SCAM (7226).
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