Ponca City Police issue scam alert

From the Ponca City Police Department

Officers have responded to several citizens reporting possible scams recently that began when they received a phone call.

Three elderly citizens in the last two weeks that have received phone calls from a person identifying themselves as an attorney. The caller goes on to say that a grandchild has been arrested and needs money to get out of jail, pay fines or for damages resulting from an accident.

“Sadly, scam artists often target the elderly” says Police Chief Don Bohon. “In this particular scam, the suspects know that making a plea on behalf of a grandchild who needs help can often be effective, because most grandparents will do whatever they can to help their grandkids”.

Bohon suggests if you get call like this, ask questions. Ask for the caller’s name and phone number so that the story can be checked out, and tell the caller you will call them back. Never give out credit card information, financial information, or social security numbers.