Crime & Safety
Sharon Police Warn Of New 'Phishing' Scam
Sharon police said they took a call from a resident who said someone demanded ransom to prevent the release of personal information.
SHARON, MA —Sharon police are warning residents to beware of what they call a new "phishing" scheme in which residents are contacted, told their private online information has been compromised and a ransom is demanded for not releasing that information to those who could use it to commit fraud.
Sharon police said an officer took a report on a scam attempt in town on Friday with that there are reports of similar scams in Essex County and Norfolk County.
In the scam, the perpetrator claims to have gained access to the victim's internet activity and has web history, social media accounts and banking information. The perpetrator then demands $2,000 to keep the information private.
Find out what's happening in Sharonfor free with the latest updates from Patch.
"With citizens being home more than ever, most likely spending more time on the web than usual, these scams continue to evolve," Sharon police warned.
Sharon police ask that residents contact them at 781-784-1587 if they believe they have been the target of any scam.
Find out what's happening in Sharonfor free with the latest updates from Patch.
Related Patch Coverage: Coronavirus: Plymouth County DA Tim Cruz Warns Of Scam
Get more local news delivered straight to your inbox. Sign up for free Patch newsletters and alerts.