The schemes involve cryptocurrency, timeshares and gift cards. (Representational AI photo)
Police warn of pressure tactics
The warning is particularly important for Petaluma, where people aged 65 and above make up more than 22% of the population, according to police. Police said the suspected losses from all four incidents totalled more than $315,000. Petaluma police said officers responded to four separate reports from seniors who had been targeted through these schemes during the same period, Patch reported.
Officers said people should take time to check who is asking for the payment and whether the request is genuine before handing over money. The department said this makes the community especially likely to see scams aimed at older residents. Scammers often tell people that their financial demands require immediate action, according to Petaluma police.
The cases involved cryptocurrency, timeshares and gift cards. The incidents have prompted police to warn residents to be careful when anyone asks them to send money. The department did not provide individual amounts for each case in its warning. The reports came within a short period, prompting Petaluma police to remind residents that scammers may try to create a sense of urgency. This pressure can make victims feel that they have to send money before they have time to check the request. Police warned that legitimate organisations will not pressure people to pay on the spot.