New York Attorney General Letitia James is warning residents about gold bar scams that target older adults with fake computer alerts and claims that their bank accounts have been compromised.
The New York City Police Department has investigated more than 100 gold bar scam cases over the past two years with total losses exceeding $100 million, according to the attorney general's office.
The scams often begin with a fraudulent pop-up message designed to resemble a cybersecurity warning. Victims are directed to provide remote access to their computers, allowing scammers to reach financial information or online bank accounts.
The victim is then connected with someone posing as a law enforcement officer or government investigator, the attorney general's office said. The scammer claims the victim must withdraw savings and purchase gold bars or coins to protect the money.
Victims are told to keep the matter confidential and avoid discussing it with bank employees or family members. Couriers are then used to collect the gold.
James advised residents not to call numbers included in unsolicited pop-ups, texts or emails and never to give an unknown person remote access to a computer. Anyone told there is a problem with a bank account should hang up and contact the financial institution using the number printed on a bank statement.
Residents should also avoid moving money at the urging of someone over the phone and contact a trusted person before making financial decisions under pressure, the attorney general's office said.
New Yorkers who believe they were targeted can file an online complaint with the attorney general's office or call 1-800-771-7755. New York City residents are also encouraged to contact their local police precinct.
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