Theft by Deception / Fraud

DATE & TIME: 02-01-2023 / 12:00 pm

LOCATION: Adams, Nebraska

OFFENSE: Theft by Deception / Fraud

CASE #: 2023-0538                

The Gage County Sheriff’s Office was notified on 02-01-2023 that a resident of Adams had been deceived by a suspect who claimed to be from a reputable internet technology company into downloading an “app” onto her tablet, which then allowed the suspect to access her financial information.  As part of an elaborate scheme, the suspect had the app appear as if $30,000.00 had been accidentally transferred to the victim’s bank account and he asked her to send back $29,550.00, which she did, via a bank wire transfer.

Later that day the victim became suspicious and contacted the Gage County Sheriff’s Office.  She contacted her bank, however the funds had already been sent electronically to a bank in California.  Banking officials are attempting to locate and halt payment or transfer of the funds.

The Gage County Sheriff’s Office urges people to use extreme caution and do not grant access to your financial, personal, of confidential information unless you are 100% sure who you are dealing with.  Do not succumb to any pressure or demand or threat, if it is an honest mistake, the banks will be able to correct that during business hours.  If you are asked by a bank employee or a store employee if you know the person you are sending the money to, be sure to be honest with them and only send the money if you personally know them.

If you have concerns or feel you might be the victim of a fraud, contact a family member, trusted financial professional, such as a banker or accountant, or call the local police department or the Gage County Sheriff’s Office at 402-223-5222.

Sheriff Millard “Gus” Gustafson #903

Sergeant T. Hanson #90310

Deputy P. Diehl #90316