Scam Tricks 89 Year Old Woman
BELLS, Tenn. -Elsie Pettey, 89, said as a retired widow every penny counts. Pettey said the fact someone tried to steal her hard-earned money is heartbreaking. “I got a call from this man who was so nice he said I’m gonna make you the happiest person,” she said. Law enforcement said Pettey is just one of hundreds of victims to be conned. Her granddaughter, Tina McCage believes Pettey was targeted and said she was worried easily available public information could make her a victim of a more serious crime. “Just don’t give them any information about you whatsoever. If it’s not a call that you know, don’t answer or hang up,” Tina McCage said. The Crockett County Sheriff’s Department said other victims have received text messages as well as phone calls. They said the current text messages say people have been receiving messages saying there is a problem with their bank and to call. Once the victims call they are asked to enter their 16-digit card numbers. Pettey said it is sad that people intentionally hurt others. “There’s a lot of selfish people in this world,” the 89-year-old said. Luckily, her grand daughter intercepted the calls and prevented her from providing too much information. Bells Police Chief Roger Jenkins said thankfully Pettey did not become a victim because other local victims have lost up to $30,000. Pettey said she has no idea how the scammers found her. McCage on the other hand thinks she has an idea. “I think the internet is getting out of control,” she said. James Dusenberry with Regions Bank said his bank spends millions a year to protect their customers. He said there are a few key things to remember to when dealing with finances over the phone. He said first banks will not typically send links to their customers by emails or phone. Also, banks will not ask for PINS or passwords. Dusenberry said be careful what links you do open on your computer or phone because he says malware could compromise all information stored on devices. Pettey said she wants to share her story to hopefully protect others. “Just be real careful and not fall for these jerks, who try to get something for nothing,” she said. According to Regions Bank leaders, the best tip to live by: if it seems to good to be true, it probably is.
