The Folsom Police Department is seeing an increase in scam calls targeting older adults. Scammers posing as bank representatives, businesses, or even law enforcement pressure victims into buying gift cards, withdrawing cash, or meeting in person to exchange money.
Scammers may already know personal details about their intended victims. Residents should not confirm any personal information. If a caller creates a sense of urgency or pressure, the safest response is to hang up immediately.
Scammers commonly use "spoofed" phone numbers to appear as trusted agencies or companies. If a call seems suspicious, end the call and contact the organization using its official phone number.
If someone claims to be with law enforcement, ask for a name and badge number, then end the call and contact the agency's non-emergency line to confirm the caller's identity.
Banks are trained to recognize potential scams. If bank staff advise against a withdrawal, that advice should be taken seriously.
Additional tips to stay safe:
- Do not click on links in unsolicited emails or text messages.
- Never share personal information, such as bank details, passwords, or Social Security numbers.
- Talk with friends and family about suspicious interactions to help protect others.
Anyone who believes they have been targeted by a scam or encounters suspicious activity should report it to the Folsom Police Department by calling the non-emergency line at 916-461-6400, Option 1.
