Scam Alert: Social Engineering Tactics in Our Area
From
Tarentum
Sent
Tue, Sep 30 @ 11:33am
Description
The Police Department is warning residents about a sophisticated scam that utilizes social engineering to deceive individuals into disclosing sensitive information and financial details.
What is Social Engineering?
Social engineering is when scammers manipulate people, rather than computers, to obtain what they want. Instead of “hacking” your computer, they hack your trust. They use phone calls, emails, or even casual conversations to gain your confidence, then exploit that trust to steal money or information.
How the Scam Works:
- Scammers claim your computer has a virus or that your bank accounts are at risk.
- They call repeatedly over weeks or months, pretending to be friendly by talking about family, sports, or recipes.
Once they gain your trust, they pressure you to:
- Move your money to “protect it”
- Buy gift cards or precious metals as “payment”
- Keep the entire situation secret from family, friends, or the police
Warning Signs to Watch For:
- Anyone telling you your computer has a virus and only they can fix it
- Requests to move money, buy gold, or pay with gift cards
- Callers who say “don’t tell anyone else” about what they’re asking you to do
- Strangers who suddenly seem “too friendly” and stay in touch over time
Protect Yourself:
- Hang up if something feels wrong.
- Do not send money or gift cards to anyone who contacts you unexpectedly.
- Talk to a trusted family member, your bank, or the Police Department if you’re unsure.
- Report any suspicious calls right away to 412.473.3056
Stay alert and protect yourself and your loved ones from these scams.
This notification was posted by Tarentum. Tarentum is solely responsible for this notification and unless specifically indicated, no other community or individual utilizing Savvy Citizen is sponsoring, responsible for, or endorsing this notification.
