Dedham Police Warn Residents of Medicare and Impostor Burglary Scams

The Dedham Police Department has received multiple reports of various scams and theft recently.  Residents have received calls alleged to be related to Medicare during which the caller attempts to obtain information such as the victim’s social security number, bank account numbers, etc. in order to obtain additional Medicare benefits.  These are scams.  

Residents should never disclose personal identifying information such as your social security number or bank account information to anybody that calls or knocks on your door offering increased benefits or to continue benefits.

Dedham and neighboring communities have also experienced “imposter burglaries”.  These types of crimes tend to be seasonal.  These crimes typically involve an initial suspect making contact with the victim.  The victim is distracted and typically lured to a remote area of the home under a ruse.  While this is happening, a second suspect enters the home and steals items.  Cash and jewelry are typically targeted for theft.

Senior citizens are typically targeted for these types of crimes.  Please keep an eye on your senior citizen neighbors to ensure they are not being victimized.

All citizens are reminded to be alert to avoid being victimized.  Never disclose personal identifying information.  Keep doors to your home locked.  Ask for identification from anybody that approaches your home.  This could be somebody who alleges to be doing work near the property line for a neighbor or somebody alleged to be working for a utility company such as water or electric.  

If you are not comfortable, ask the person to leave your property and call the Dedham Police.  Descriptions of people, vehicles and a direction of travel would help in locating and identifying these people.