Brookfield Police Warn of Phone, Email Scams

The Brookfield Police have recently received several complaints from residents regarding telephone scams. These scams often target the elderly.

The most recent reports have been of unsolicited telephone calls from people claiming to be with a computer software company, telling the victim that their computer is infected with a virus. The caller then offers to provide a free download the person can use to see if their computer is infected. The caller will also offer to sell the victim a program that will remove the virus from their computer and protect it from future viruses.

Residents should be aware that these are scammers and that the “free” download is itself malware that will damage their computer.

The best rule to live by is that if someone calls you or emails you with an offer, it is a scam. Do not give them any information at all; do not even confirm your name, address or phone number for them. Certainly do not provide your date of birth, social security number, credit card numbers or bank account information to anyone.

If someone calls you claiming to be with a business that you recognize (such as a local bank at which you have your accounts), ask them for their name and tell them you will call them back. Then look up the number yourself on your bank statement or bill (don’t call them back at any number they give you) and call them back yourself. 

If you receive a “fraud alert” from someone claiming to be from your credit card company, DO NOT call the number they leave on your voicemail or that they send you in an email. Call the number on the back of your credit card.

If you have any questions or any doubt as to whether a certain call or email is legitimate or a scam, please call Detective Sergeant Michael O’Brien at the Brookfield Police Department (203-740-4121).  Det. Sgt. O’Brien is also available to speak to local groups or organizations regarding scams and frauds.