New Milford, CT — New Milford police have issued a scam alert warning to residents about an alarming rise in scams specifically targeting elderly community members. Authorities report that fraudsters are using sophisticated tactics to deceive seniors into handing over significant sums of money.
One of the most common schemes involves emails falsely claiming that the recipient’s software licenses have expired. These emails prompt unsuspecting victims to provide personal information or make payments to “renew” their licenses. In many cases, seniors, who may be less familiar with digital security threats, are more vulnerable to these deceptive tactics.
“We’re seeing an uptick in these kinds of frauds, particularly targeting our older residents” … “Scammers are exploiting trust and technology gaps to steal money and sensitive information.”
said Detective Laura Jenkins of the New Milford Police Department.
Police are urging residents to exercise caution when receiving unsolicited emails or phone calls requesting personal information or payment. Authorities advise:
- Verify the legitimacy of emails or calls by contacting companies directly using official contact information.
- Consult with family members or trusted individuals before making any payments.
- Never share personal information, such as Social Security numbers or bank account details, over the phone or email without proper verification.
Local resident Martha Thompson, 78, shared her recent experience with such a scam.
“I got an email saying my computer’s license was about to expire. It looked so real” … “Luckily, my grandson told me it was a scam before I sent any money.”
Martha Thompson recalled
New Milford police emphasize the importance of community awareness in preventing these crimes.
“If something feels off, it probably is” … “We encourage anyone who suspects they’ve been targeted to report it immediately.”
added Detective Jenkins
Residents can report suspicious activities directly to the New Milford Police Department at (860) 355-3133.
Stay Informed and Stay Safe
The police department will host an informational session on scam prevention for seniors at the New Milford Senior Center on March 5, 2025, at 2 PM. Community members are encouraged to attend and learn more about how to protect themselves and their loved ones from scams.
