CHARLESTON, S.C. – The Charleston Police Department is alerting the public after a series of scams targeted elderly residents, resulting in financial losses ranging from $7,000 to $10,000 per victim.
Authorities are investigating five cases involving seniors aged 61 to 85 who were contacted by phone and manipulated into sending money to scammers. In three cases, victims were directed to local Bitcoin ATMs, with scammers remaining on the line to guide large transfers.
“These criminals rely on trust and fear and often prey upon the most vulnerable members of our society,” Charleston Police officials said. “Criminals pressure victims into acting quickly before they have time to think or confirm the story.”
Common Scam Tactics
Police report that scammers often create false emergencies or a sense of urgency to provoke panic. Examples include:
Claiming a loved one is in jail and needs bail.
Stating there is a warrant for your arrest that can be cleared by paying a fine.
Alleging your identity, bank account, or devices have been compromised.
Informing you that you have won a lottery but must pay to collect.
Officials warn that attempts to keep victims on the phone until a payment is made, or requests for payment through unusual methods such as gift cards or cryptocurrency, should raise immediate red flags.
How to Protect Yourself
Charleston Police advise hanging up immediately on any suspicious calls and never sharing personal or financial information over the phone. Victims are encouraged to contact a trusted family member or their local police department to verify claims before taking action.
These alerts highlight the need for vigilance, particularly among older residents, to prevent falling victim to increasingly sophisticated financial scams.
