Police Warn New Yorkers: Never Give a Caller Access to Your Phone

Scammers are getting more convincing, and the New Hartford Police are warning residents about two recent cases that show just how far they'll go to get your money.

The NHPD says residents have recently been targeted by sophisticated scams involving people pretending to be bank employees, government officials and other trusted organizations.

In some cases, scammers aren't just asking for your banking information. They're convincing victims to give them remote access to their phones or even hand over boxes filled with cash.

New Hartford Police Warn About Remote Access Phone Scam

In one recent case, a victim was contacted by someone claiming to be a bank representative.

During a video call, the victim was convinced to allow the person remote access to their cell phone. That meant the scammer could essentially watch everything happening on the phone, including as the victim accessed financial accounts.

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The scammer then reportedly walked the victim through a series of transactions and withdrawals.

Think about how much personal information you have on your phone. Banking apps, passwords, emails, text messages and verification codes may all be accessible if someone gains control of the device.

New Hartford Police say you should never allow an unsolicited caller to remotely access your phone or computer.

Scam Victim Told to Put Cash in a Box for "Agent"

Another recent scam may sound unbelievable until you realize someone actually fell victim to it.

Police say a person claiming to be associated with the Federal Trade Commission contacted a victim and said their personal information and Social Security number had been compromised. The victim was then told they needed to withdraw a large amount of money from the bank to "protect" it.

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According to police, the victim was instructed to put the cash into a box, cover it, place the box inside a bag and wait for an alleged undercover agent to collect it. The victim eventually handed the money over to people who showed up at the residence.

Police Say Government Agencies Will Never Ask You to Do This

This is one of those warnings worth sharing with parents, grandparents and anyone else who may be more vulnerable to these kinds of scams.

New Hartford Police say legitimate government and law enforcement agencies will never ask you to:

• Withdraw large amounts of cash to protect your money
• Put cash in a box, bag or envelope for someone to pick up
• Leave cash outside your home or at another location
• Mail cash
• Buy cryptocurrency to keep your money safe
• Give a stranger access to your banking or financial apps
• Stay on the phone while someone walks you through financial transactions

Scammers often rely on fear and urgency. They'll tell you your money is in danger, your identity has been stolen or something terrible will happen if you don't act immediately.

That's exactly when you should stop.

What to Do If You Get a Suspicious Call

If someone unexpectedly contacts you claiming there's a problem with your bank account, Social Security number or finances, hang up.

Don't give them passwords, verification codes, banking information or access to your phone or computer.

If the caller claims to be from your bank, contact the bank yourself using the number printed on the back of your debit or credit card or on your bank statement. You can also contact your local police department if you're unsure whether something is legitimate.

New Hartford Police offered a simple rule that's worth remembering: If you didn't initiate the contact, don't trust the contact. Verify it independently.

Police say many of these scams are operated by individuals or organized groups outside the United States, which can make recovering money and prosecuting those responsible extremely difficult.

In other words, recognizing the scam before the money is gone may be your best protection.