San Luis Obispo Seniors Targeted in Computer Scam, Sheriff's Office Issues Warning

The San Luis Obispo County Sheriff’s Office is taking strong action to address a rising issue in the community, as it has been inundated with a wave of complaints regarding a computer scam specifically aimed at seniors within the county.

The Deceptive Tactic

Reports have revealed that the scam operates through the use of intrusive pop-up messages on individuals' computers, falsely claiming that their systems have been compromised. The messages coerce the victims into calling a specified number under the guise of preventing financial loss and safeguarding their personal information. Once the number is dialed, the scammers employ a series of deceitful tactics, including the fraudulent transfer of the victim to a purported bank fraud department.

Elaborate Deception

Upon further interaction, the victims are manipulated into a prolonged engagement, spanning several days, with the perpetrator on the other end of the line. Subsequently, the scammers orchestrate a face-to-face meeting at the victim's residence, compelling them to withdraw substantial sums of cash under the pretense of safeguarding their funds. To lend an air of authenticity to their ploy, the scammers assert that the individuals sent to collect the money possess a security code, purportedly verifying their legitimacy.

Financial Loss Incurred

The repercussions of this deceitful scheme have been financially devastating, with individuals reporting significant monetary losses. In one distressing case, an individual was defrauded of over $120,000, while another fell victim to a loss exceeding $60,000.

Law Enforcement's Advisory

In response to the escalating incidence of this duplicitous ploy, the Sheriff's Office is urging the community to promptly report any suspicious computer pop-ups and refrain from complying with coercive demands for financial funds made via telephone communication. Furthermore, the Sheriff's Office advocates for the dissemination of information among peers, friends, and family members to raise awareness and prevent further individuals from being ensnared by this treacherous scam.

Point of Contact

For individuals seeking to report an incidence of this fraudulent activity or to acquire further information, the Sheriff's Office can be reached through its dedicated contact, Tony Cipolla, who can be contacted at 805-781-4547.