In a recent string of elder fraud tactics, the San José Police Department has taken a stand by arresting 35-year-old Liqun Fan, a resident of Tracy, CA. According to the San José Police Department's press release, on September 12, the unsuspecting victim was cheated into sending over $1,000 after being misled by a computer virus notification.
San José Police Department Financial Crimes Unit detectives acted quickly upon receiving the report around 8:00 AM, successfully intercepting Fan with the package of cash intended for his deceptive ends. Charged with possession of the stolen property, Fan now awaits processing behind bars at Santa Clara County Main Jail.
The San José Police Department takes this opportunity to provide guidance. "Scammers pretend to be from a known organization," warns the press release, emphasizing the predatory nature of these fraudsters. They barrack victims with false claims of problems or prizes, pushing for rash decisions and particular payment methods, such as gift cards, cash by mail, or cryptocurrency, and hard hooks to release once bitten.
As a shield against these tactics, the department advises blocking unsolicited messages and staunchly safeguarding personal and financial information. In moments of pressured decision-making, "Stop and talk to a trusted person, such as law enforcement," the San José Police Department press release urges, promoting a step back to view the situation from a safeguarded distance.
The San José Police Department has made resources available at 408-277-4521 or their website. The public can also play a role in eradicating these crimes by submitting anonymous tips via the P3TIPS mobile app, by calling the tip line at (408) 947-STOP, or online at www.siliconvalleycrimestoppers.org, with potential rewards from the Silicon Valley Crime Stoppers Program for information leading to an arrest.
