September Community Alert: Protect Yourself from Distraction Scams
By Chris Orlando, Police Officer - 3rd Precinct POP Unit
Nassau County residents, be vigilant! Recent reports have highlighted a rise in distraction scams targeting our community. These scams involve individuals who pretend to be helpful or in need of assistance but are, in fact, attempting to steal valuables like pocketbooks, credit cards, and money.
Common Distraction Scams:
Bank Withdrawals: Scammers flatten your vehicle's tires and wait for you to be distracted while fixing them. During this time, they may take money envelopes from your unlocked vehicle.
Dropped Money: A scammer might approach you, claiming you dropped money. As you check your belongings, they take the opportunity to steal your credit or debit cards.
Loading Groceries: While loading groceries into your vehicle, an unattended pocketbook in your unlocked car can be an easy target for thieves.
Jewelry Sales: Beware of individuals selling fake gold jewelry, passing it off as real to unsuspecting buyers.
Gas Money Pleas: Some individuals may claim they need money for gas or travel. This could be a ruse to distract you while an accomplice steals from you.
Panhandling: Individuals may stand in roadways with signs asking for money, sometimes using this as a cover for more nefarious activities.
Protect Yourself:
Stay Alert: Always be mindful of your surroundings. Scammers often work in pairs, with one person distracting you while the other steals your belongings.
Secure Your Property: Never leave your property unattended, even for a moment. Lock your vehicle and keep valuables out of sight.
Report Suspicious Activity: If you find yourself in an emergency or witness suspicious behavior, report it immediately by calling 911.
By staying aware and cautious, you can help protect yourself and your community from these deceptive practices. Let's work together to keep Nassau County safe!
