If someone calls and offers to swing by your house to pick up your bank card, they’re not doing you a favor — they’re robbing you with manners.
In this publication, we're uncovering a disturbing scam that’s been making its way across Long Island, specifically preying on senior citizens. It’s slick, invasive, and designed to empty bank accounts under the guise of protection. Let’s break it down.
Scammers are impersonating banks, claiming seniors' accounts are under attack — then sending someone to collect their cards and PINs, leading to immediate ATM theft.
How It Works:
-
The Call:
A scammer phones a senior citizen, pretending to be from their bank. The call often appears to come from a legitimate number thanks to caller ID spoofing. -
The Claim:
The scammer urgently warns, “Your bank account is under attack. Your cards no longer work.” -
The Setup:
To “protect” the victim, they offer to send someone to their home to pick up the compromised debit and credit cards. -
The Theft:
The fraudster arrives, takes the cards, and somehow convinces the victim to provide their PINs. -
The Result:
The scammer then hits the nearest ATM and drains the victim’s account.
Who’s Targeted:
- Senior Citizens — especially those living alone or less tech-savvy
- Residents of Suffolk County, Long Island, though this scam could easily spread
- Anyone who might panic at the thought of losing their savings
Real-Life Example:
At a press conference last week, Suffolk County Executive Ed Romaine and Suffolk County Police revealed that multiple seniors have already lost money to this exact scam. Victims were convinced their cards no longer worked and willingly handed them over — along with their PINs.
“And guess what?” Romaine said. “Then they go to the ATM and steal their money.”
The scammers aren’t careless — they’re calculated and convincing.
Why You Should Care:
This scam isn't just another phishing attempt — it’s personal. Someone is physically showing up at people’s homes, using fear to manipulate them into handing over direct access to their life savings.
If your parents, grandparents, or older neighbors aren’t aware of this scam, they could be next.
How to Protect Yourself:
✔️ Never Give Out Your PIN
No bank will ever ask for your PIN — over the phone, by email, or in person. That’s a massive red flag.
✔️ No One Comes to Your House for Your Card
If someone says your bank is sending a person to your home to collect your cards, hang up immediately.
✔️ Verify the Call
Hang up and call the number on the back of your card — not the one that called you.
✔️ Talk to Your Loved Ones
If you have elderly parents, friends, or neighbors, talk to them about this scam now. Awareness is protection.
✔️ Report Suspicious Calls Immediately
Contact local authorities and your bank. Time matters.
Quick Tips & Updates:
Quick Tip #1: Did you know scammers can “spoof” real bank numbers? Your caller ID might show a legitimate bank, but it’s still a scammer on the other end.
Pro Tip: Use call-blocking apps or phone features to limit unknown calls — especially on seniors’ phones.
Local Update: The Suffolk County Police Department strongly urges residents to avoid answering unknown numbers and to call the bank directly if contacted about account issues. You can learn more at yrp.ca/en/crime-prevention/Fraud-Prevention
Stay safe, stay informed.
Keywords:
• Bank Card Pickup Scam – A fraud where scammers pose as banks and collect victims’ cards and PINs.
• Caller ID Spoofing – A trick where scammers fake the number that appears on your phone.
• ATM Fraud – The unauthorized withdrawal of funds using stolen cards and PINs.
• Elder Fraud – A category of scams specifically targeting senior citizens.
• Impersonation Scam – When fraudsters pretend to be trusted institutions to deceive victims.
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