During distraction scams, the suspects reportedly identify themselves as either being from the water department, needing to check the home's water system due to recent weather issues, or advising that they have work to do in their backyard. While the victim is being distracted in a back room of the home or in the back yard, a second suspect enters to steal items.
Residents should stay alert for these types of scams which usually target senior citizens. These suspects will often wear hard hats, reflective vests, or false identification to make them appear to be legitimate utility workers and will also carry two-way portable radios at times to communicate with an accomplice.
Residents are strongly encouraged to keep their exterior doors closed and locked at all times, including storm doors when present, and to speak with visitors through adjacent windows. Residents should also keep overhead garage doors closed and locked especially if your garage connects to your home and to carry a key and cell phone with you while working outside so that you can keep your home secured and report emergencies or suspicious activity when necessary by calling 911.
Please also share this information with any senior citizens that you know.