CLARKSBURG, W.Va. – Police in Clarksburg are warning the public, specifically older ladies, about a group scam targeting shoppers at the Kroger store on Emily Drive.
Reports indicate the group will try to distract a shopper with a question while another member of the group takes the victim’s wallet or purse from a shopping cart.
The scammers then immediately use debit or credit cards to buy gift cards. Police say the losses total $40,000 and some of the gift cards have been redeemed as far away as California.
Police ask the public to remain alert, don’t leave purses or wallets unattended and report any suspicious activity. Any information regarding the scam can be left by calling 304-624-1610.