(Shelburne, MA) The Shelburne Police Department has seen a wave of scam calls typically claiming a family member has been in an accident or emergency, requiring immediate funds. The scammers use this scenario to create a sense of urgency and panic so people will be more likely to provide financial information. The police department recommends not giving personal or financial information over the phone, verifying what the caller is saying, reporting the incident, and working to stay calm. 

Full message from the Shelburne Police Department:

Subject: Urgent Public Safety Alert: Beware of Scam Calls Falsely Reporting Family Accidents
We hope this message finds you well. We would like to bring an urgent matter to your attention concerning a recent wave of fraudulent phone calls impacting our community.
It has come to our attention that a growing number of residents have been targeted by scam callers claiming that a family member has been involved in an accident. These callers often create a sense of urgency and panic, telling the recipient that there are immediate financial obligations to be fulfilled for the welfare of the supposed injured family member.
Please be advised that these calls are NOT legitimate. They are the work of fraudsters seeking to exploit your concern for loved ones in order to extract money.
Here are some precautions to take if you receive such a call:
1. **Do not provide any personal or financial information over the phone.** Beware of requests for money, bank account numbers, credit card details, or any other sensitive information.
2. **Verify the information.** If you’re told that a family member is in trouble, hang up and reach out to your family member or others who could confirm their safety directly.
3. **Report the incident.** If you receive such a call, please report it to us immediately. Your reports help us track these scams and take action against the perpetrators.
4. **Stay calm.** Scammers capitalize on fear and urgency. Take a moment to breathe and assess the situation rationally.
Remember, your local police department will NEVER call you to request money or personal financial information. Any such request, particularly one involving a supposed accident or emergency, is a telltale sign of a scam.
Please share this information with your friends, family, and neighbors, especially those who might be particularly vulnerable to such scams.
Warm Regards,
The Shelburne Police Department