Folsom Police warn of impersonators, other scammers

Be alert, scammers are becoming more sophisticated and even may impersonate your local police officer; that's the warning from Folsom Police as they urge people to be hyper-aware of the various scam threats which are becoming more and more prevalent. In a social media post, Folsom Police warn that scammers are pretending to be law enforcement, social security officials or even security guards in local businesses; scammers use these impersonations to pressure victims to send them money. Just last week, on Dec. 17, police said they responded to a report of a group soliciting donations at a local shopping center, claiming the money would help fund a youth trip to Florida. Shoppers were asked to donate $10 by tapping their credit card on a mobile scanner. One victim was charged $1,000, but the scammers had already left before police arrived on scene. Here is a list of red flags provided by Folsom Police: Red flags: * Claims of "urgent" legal trouble, warrants or frozen accounts. * Demands for payment via gift cards, wire transfer or cash (shipping or drop-off). * Pressure to act immediately without time to verify. * Requests to keep the call "confidential." * Threats of arrest or legal consequences. When asked to donate: * Be cautious of groups you don't recognize or aren't connected to.* Ask for written documentation about the organization. * Always confirm the exact amount being charged before tapping your card. * Request a receipt for your donation. If someone can't provide documentation, won't show you the charge amount or can't give a receipt, the organization may not be legitimate. What to do if contacted by a scammer when you're home: * Hang up: Don't engage or provide personal information. * Verify: Call the agency or company back using an official number you can look up. * Report: Contact the FTC at ReportFraud.ftc.gov or call police. When in doubt, end the call and verify independently. Taking 10 minutes to confirm could save you thousands of dollars, according to police.