More Than $500,000 Stolen From Fairfield Residents In Scam: Police

FAIRFIELD, CT ? More than $500,000 has been stolen from Fairfield residents in recent months in "a sophisticated scam involving individuals posing as federal agents from agencies such as the Federal Trade Commission, the Department of the Treasury, and other federal offices," according to Fairfield police.

In three separate cases, the scammers contacted the residents "claiming there is a warrant for their arrest or that their identity has been used in criminal activity," police officials wrote in a Facebook post.

"They send fake federal documents that appear legitimate, complete with seals, case numbers, and signatures, and convince victims to wire money or purchase gold to 'protect' their assets," authorities wrote. "In some cases, victims are instructed to hand over valuables in parking lots to someone providing a prearranged passcode."

Such instances are a scam, because no government agency will ever call or email to say an arrest warrant has been issued, nor would any law enforcement agency say to wire money, buy gold, or meet someone to hand over assets.

Additionally, no agency would request payment in cryptocurrency, gift cards, or precious metals, according to police.

"Your awareness is the best defense," officials said. "Please share this information with family, friends, and neighbors, especially seniors, so no one else falls victim."

Here are tips if you receive a suspicious call or message:

• Hang up and do not engage
• Do not send money or personal information
• Contact the Fairfield Police Department at (203) 254-4800
• Report the scam to the Federal Trade Commission at reportfraud.ftc.gov