SWEETWATER COUNTY – Sheriff Rich Haskell today issued an advisory concerning a phone swindle circulating in Sweetwater County that targets seniors.
Haskell said the victim receives a telephone call from a man who identifies himself as the person’s grandson, who sometimes explains that if his voice is unfamiliar, it’s because he has a cold. The caller goes on to say that he is in jail and needs money for bail, damages, and attorney expenses.
The first call is usually followed up by a second, from a man who represents himself as the bogus grandson’s attorney, who “confirms” the story and presses the victim to wire the funds – usually $2,000 to $4,000 – right away.
“Obviously, the swindlers are doing some research before they make their calls,” Haskell said. “That’s a big part of making it all sound authentic. They know the grandson’s name and use it.”
He encouraged Sweetwater County residents to be alert for similar calls, and to confirm independently any such information with other relatives before sending off any money.
