The Marin County Sheriff’s Office is warning residents about a surge in internet and phone scams targeting elderly community members.
According to officials, scammers are often posing as bank employees or law enforcement to trick their victims.
One common tactic is using fake pop-ups urging victims to call a provided number, saying their bank accounts or computers have been compromised. Scammers would convince victims to withdraw large sums of cash or buy gold, which a “courier” then collects.
Another tactic is the bail scam, where callers claim a loved one has been arrested and needs bail money, officials said.
Authorities advise never to call numbers provided by pop-ups or share money with strangers.
Anyone who suspects a scam should contact their financial institution directly or verify with official sources.