SOUTH LAKE TAHOE, Calif. – A manager at US Bank in South Lake Tahoe alerted the South Lake Tahoe Police Department (SLTPD) on Friday about attempted fraud at the bank.
The bank manager informed SLTPD that someone posing as an agent with the US Marshals Office directed one of their customers to withdraw the entirety of the money from their bank account in cash. The “US Marshal” would then send a courier to pick up the money.
The scammer advised the potential victim that the money provided would be reimbursed via a check. The scammer had personal information about the victim. The caller ID used by the suspect showed the main phone number of the South Lake Tahoe Police Department (530.542.6110).
SLTPD wants to remind the public that neither they nor any legitimate government agency will ever call and request cash to support operations. Additionally, any request for money from a non-profit organization tied to an agency should be vetted before deciding to donate.
Personal identifying information about most people is available on the internet. Just because a caller can tell you personal details does not make their call legitimate. Common victims of these scams are the elderly and those who are not familiar with technology.
Using different internet applications, phone numbers can be manipulated in the caller ID to replicate legitimate agencies and businesses. If a request sounds far-fetched for the type of agency or business the caller claims, be cautious in your interaction with them.
Alternate Contact: Detective Schryvers, (530) 542-6100