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Police investigating after two men scam elderly woman at her Franklin home

Posted at 8:55 PM, Sep 16, 2016
and last updated 2016-09-16 20:55:54-04

FRANKLIN TOWNSHIP, Ind. -- An investigation is underway after an elderly woman was scammed out of money and valuables in her own home.

The scam happened to an 83-year-old woman at her Franklin Township home. Police say shortly before 8 p.m. Thursday night she was approached by two men who wanted to talk about repairs to her driveway.

The men identified themselves as employees with ‘Phillips Driveway Repairs.’

The woman said one of the men had walked and talked his way out to her driveway and she followed him. What she didn’t realize, was that the second man had made his way into her home and was rifling through her drawers. He stole a ring and some cash.

The President and CEO of the Better Business Bureau Tim Maniscalo said this time of scam is getting more and more common, “There is some prevalence to the elderly but really everybody is vulnerable. If you are really in this case a homeowner, they’re going to maybe come after you and target you so no one is safe.”

Some tips from the Better Business Bureau to keep yourself safe:

  • Look for a marked vehicle
  • Always ask for a business card
  • Question the person whether their business is licensed

If the person at your door gives strange answers or doesn’t have those things, you should consider it a red flag.