Riley County Police are advising people to be aware of a computer scam after an elderly victim lost nearly $20,000.
RCPD says the 84-year-old man reported Tuesday an unknown suspect scammed him out of money for approximately $19,500. Anyone with information should call police or Manhattan Riley County Crime Stoppers.
Educating neighbors, family and friends is key. RCPD says there are about five common scams they see. The holiday time can be big business for scammers.
* Computer Scam – Someone sends you a link that contains a virus which locks your computer. They say they will unlock it for a certain fee, but typically just take your money.
* The Grandparent Scam – a person calls claiming the victim’s grandson or granddaughter is in jail and needs money to be bonded out.
* The Loan Scam – the company deposits money in your account for a ‘loan’ and asks you to send back the excess.
* The Warrant Scam – scammers leave a recorded message stating you have a warrant out for your arrest for committing ‘serious allegations,’ but can clear your name for a payment
* IRS Scam – a person claims you owe back taxes to the IRS and threatens to arrest you if you don’t pay the amount.
