Ruse Burglaries

Ruse burglaries increase in frequency as the weather gets warmer. A ruse burglary occurs when a homeowner is distracted by someone, typically at their front door, appearing to have a legitimate business offer. These individuals convince homeowners that they have a problem outside on their property (utility meter, trees, fence, etc.) and offer to show how they can help fix the issue. While the homeowner is occupied, other subjects enter the residence at a different location and take items that are easy to conceal like cash or jewelry. Other suspicious solicitors may request immediate payment of cash before a job is completed, and never return to finish the job.

Although the Hoffman Estates Police Department conducts frequent residential patrols, it is important that the Police and community work together. Ruse burglaries can happen to anyone, however, many of those targeted are senior citizens. If there is any question as to the legitimacy of a subject that comes to your door, please call 9-1-1.

Fraud Alert

There has also been an increase in the number of fraud cases targeting senior citizens. Often in these cases, scammers find ways through email or compromised website links to make contact with potential victims. The scammers pose as company representatives (Microsoft, Apple, PayPal, etc.) or as law enforcement officials (local PD, FBI, etc.) advising the victim that their bank accounts are being hacked and they need to respond by calling a special crime hotline. With the victim on the line, scammers obtain account information from the victims and convince them to withdraw large sums of money to “protect” it from the hackers. Recent scams have also directed victims to purchase cryptocurrency to protect their assets against fake “hackers.” Money sent this way is quickly moved via various cryptocurrency exchanges, making recovery nearly impossible. 

A common element in these fraud cases is confusing victims into believing that their bank accounts are at risk, and that they can only get help by following the instructions given. Those receiving confusing computer pop-up messages, email messages or calls of this nature are encouraged to call 9-1-1 immediately to request assistance from the Police Department.