Published on August 24, 2023
Dear Dixon Community Members,
We have recently become aware of a concerning scam targeting our elderly residents. This scam involves a seemingly innocent act of pointing out a dropped $20 bill, only to lead to theft and potential financial loss.
How the Scam Works:
- A scammer drops a $20 bill while waiting in line at a store.
- They point it out to an elderly patron, claiming the elderly person dropped it.
- The scammer watches the elderly person pay and memorizes their PIN number.
- They follow the person to their car and claim the $20 bill was actually theirs.
- When the elderly person goes to give it back, the scammer robs the person's wallet to use the bank card.
How to Protect Yourself:
- Stay Alert: Be aware of your surroundings and those around you.
- Protect Your PIN: Shield your PIN when entering it at stores or ATMs.
- Don't Engage with Strangers: Politely decline offers from strangers, even if they seem harmless.
- Report Suspicious Activity: If something doesn't feel right, contact the Dixon Police Department immediately at 707-678-7070.
Other Related Scams:
- Distraction Thefts: Scammers may use various tactics to distract you while stealing your belongings.
- Phishing Emails and Calls: Be cautious of unsolicited emails or calls asking for personal or financial information.
Remember, your safety is our priority. Together, we can keep Dixon a safe and caring community. If you have any questions or need further assistance, please don't hesitate to reach out to us.
The City of Dixon is hosting a presentation from the Solano Senior Fraud Prevention Center on September 6, 2023 from 10:30am-11:30am at the Senior/Multi-Use Center (201 S. Fifth Street). Attend this free presentation to learn more about how to protect yourself from scams. For more information, please contact Austin George at (707) 678-7441.