HomeMy WebLinkAboutNR101717KPDwarnspublicaboutletterscam
C O U NT Y O F KAU A‘I
BERNARD P. CARVALHO JR.
Mayor
WALLACE G. REZENTES JR.
Managing Director
KAUA‘I POLICE DEPARTMENT
News Release
For Immediate Release: October 17, 2017
DARRYL PERRY, CHIEF
Tel (808) 241-1600
Fax (808) 241-1604
KPD warns public about letter scam
LĪHU‘E – Kaua‘i police are warning the public to be aware of a financial letter scam
being circulated to Kaua‘i residents.
Kaua‘i Police Chief Darryl Perry recently received a fraudulent letter claiming that his
distant relative in Spain had died and left a safe deposit box containing $7.8 million.
“The letter goes on to explain that I could inherit half of the money if I make a claim for
its contents,” stated Police Chief Perry. “We want the public to be aware of this scam and others
like it, and know how to guard against falling victim.”
Many financial scams promise the victim a large payout, but only after he or she wire
transfers money to the requestor, supposedly to cover taxes or processing fees.
Some con artists use simple requests via letter, e-mail or popular social networking
sites, while others develop a more in-depth relationship with a victim over a period of time.
Kaua‘i police are reminding residents to use the following scam prevention tips:
Do not answer or return calls from unknown numbers.
Use caution when responding to unsolicited calls or e-mails, or unknown individuals
on social networking sites.
Check your bank, credit card and phone statements regularly. If you see an unknown
or unauthorized charge, immediately notify your bank or service provider.
If it sounds too good to be true, it usually is.
Senior citizens are popular targets for scam artists as they tend to be more trusting
of unknown individuals. Responsible family members should help to keep them safe.
“Above all else, never give your personal or financial information to someone you don’t
know,” warned Police Chief Perry. “Once you give money to a con artist, it is very unlikely you
will get it back.
If you suspect a scam, please call the Kaua‘i Police Department at 241-1711 and file an
official police report.
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