If your “lawyer” offers house calls to pick up thousands in cash, you might want to hang up the phone and check your locks.
In this publication, we're uncovering a cruel and growing scam that recently hit a senior citizen in Troy, Michigan—and it could easily happen to your parent, grandparent, or neighbor. Let’s dive right in.
Elderly Woman Loses $8,400 After Fake Lawyer Sends Courier to Her Door
A 78-year-old woman in Oakland County was targeted in a phone scam so convincing, she handed over $8,400 in cash to a stranger who came to her doorstep. The fraudsters used emotional manipulation and spoofed phone numbers to impersonate her son and a supposed legal team. She was only moments away from losing another $9,200 when she realized something wasn’t right.
How It Works:
This is how the scam unfolded:
- Spoofed Caller ID: The victim received a call from what appeared to be her son’s number.
- Urgent Story: A man claimed her son had been in a car accident and was in jail.
- Fake Lawyer: She was given another number to call a supposed attorney.
- Cash Request: The “lawyer” asked for $8,400 in bail money and said someone would come collect it.
- In-Person Pickup: A man arrived at her home to take the cash envelope.
- Second Attempt: Another call followed, asking for an additional $9,200. That’s when she realized it was a scam and contacted the Troy Police.
Who’s Targeted:
• Elderly individuals, especially those living alone or unfamiliar with spoofing technology
• People likely to respond emotionally to distress calls about loved ones
• Residents in suburban or urban areas—scammers are showing up in person
Real-Life Example:
This incident was reported to the Troy Police Department on June 3, 2025. Police say the scammer went so far as to appear at the victim’s home for the pickup. Similar cases have been reported across Metro Detroit. Just last month, a Shelby Township couple lost $50,000 in a nearly identical scheme.
Why You Should Care:
These scams don’t just cost money—they exploit love and trust. By impersonating family members and pretending to be in danger, scammers hijack your emotions and push you into action.
If you or someone you care for receives a call like this, one wrong move can mean thousands lost—and sadly, it’s rarely recoverable.
How to Protect Yourself:
• Verify Everything: Always hang up and call your family member directly using a known number.
• Pause Before Paying: Scamm• ers rely on panic. Take a breath before making decisions involving money.
• Call the Police: If someone claims to be coming to your home to collect cash—call 911.
• Never Give Cash to Strangers: No legitimate lawyer, bail bond agent, or police officer will show up to your home unannounced for money.
• Talk to Loved Ones: Regular conversations with older family members can help them stay alert and informed.
Quick Tips & Updates
Quick Tip: Did you know? Phone numbers can be spoofed to appear as though they’re from someone you know—even family. Never trust caller ID alone.
Pro Tip: Set up a family safe word for emergencies. If someone calls claiming a loved one is in trouble, ask for the word.
Update: Michigan State Police recently issued a statewide alert about rising fake bond scams and fraudulent text messages posing as government agencies.
Stay safe, stay informed.
Keywords
- Spoofing: The act of disguising a communication to make it appear as though it's coming from a trusted source.
- Bail Scam: A scam where a fraudster claims a loved one is in jail and demands payment for their release.
- Courier Scam: A scheme where the scammer sends someone to physically collect money or documents.
- Impersonation Fraud: A form of deception where someone pretends to be another person, often a relative or official, to manipulate the victim.
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