FAIRFAX, Va. (WUSA) -- The City of Fairfax Police Department wants you to be on the lookout for a telephone scam targeting elderly individuals that could cost you money.
Police say they have investigated two incidents in a month in which someone calls residents claiming to be a police officer or government official, stating that the resident's grandson has been arrested. The caller says the resident must pay the grandson's bond so that he can be released from jail, and that to speak to the grandson the resident has to wire money to Lima Peru or to Canada. The caller asks for the money be sent by Western Union. Police say often, the caller will often call back and request a second payment for the grandson's release.
Police are asking residents to hang up and not send money to the caller. They also recommend notifying the telephone company to see if the telephone number can be blocked.
If you are receiving scam telephone calls, police say you should contact the police department with any questions or concerns.