Island residents targeted by phone scams

Bar Harbor and Mount Desert Police Departments Press Release

BAR HARBOR AND MOUNT DESERT—This week saw two Island residents targeted by phone scams. In each attempt, the callers identified themselves as federal law enforcement officers and advised the residents that they were implicated in drug-related crimes occurring out-of-state. The residents were then pressured to transfer money to the callers in return for resolution of the matter.

Law enforcement agencies across the country have seen a consistent uptick in these incidents. While some of the details differ, the tactics used typically involve:

• The caller(s) introducing themselves as a member of a law enforcement agency

• The caller(s) advising the victim that they are implicated in criminal activity and/or have a warrant for their arrest.

• The caller(s) applies high-pressure and/or threats, which may also involve accusing the victim of other crimes or immoral activity

• The callers(s) may purport to be working with local law enforcement and may provide the names of local officers

• The caller(s) directs the victim to send money to a provided address-In some cases, victims have met individuals involved in the fraud in-person to transfer the funds.

Local or federal law enforcement will never demand via phone that an individual provide money. All phone calls, text messages or emails that contain a request for money should always be seen as suspect. In the event that such a call, or other communication, is received, residents are asked to take no action with the caller/sender and to make contact with a local law enforcement agency.

For general questions, or for additional fraud prevention resources, please contact: cdickens@barharbormaine.gov or Bar Harbor and Mount Desert Police Departments 207-288-3391 or 207-276-5111.