[Cp-bulletin] Informational Bulletin - Scam Artist

[Cheryl N Vossmer]

INFORMATIONAL BULLETIN
Issued: April 29, 2010

The MIT Police have recently heard from several members of the MIT community that have been victimized by a scam artist.  The victims describe him as a middle-aged African American male, medium height and build, and is typically dressed in business attire.  This individual is well-spoken, and will give the victim a story intended to elicit sympathy, i.e. his wife is in the hospital, his car has been towed, a child needs medication, etc.  He will go on to say that his wallet and/ or credit cards have been lost or stolen.  He will often have the victim call a number, which will ring on a cell phone in his possession, in order to gain the victim's trust.   The suspect cannot be traced through this number, as it is forwarded from a pre-paid cell or similar untraceable line.  He may also show an out of state identification.

The suspect will then ask for money, or may offer a check in exchange for cash.  The check will then bounce.  Victims have lost anywhere from pocket money to several hundred dollars.

The MIT Police recommend that students, faculty, and staff be wary when approached by any stranger for money.  Please call MIT Police at
617-253-1212 or 100 from an Institute phone, immediately when confronted by suspicious person anywhere on campus.

See Something  ~   Say Something.


Issued by:
Detective Sergeant Martin

Sgt. Cheryl Vossmer
MIT Police
617-253-1212


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