The State of Tennessee Adult Protection Services unit is advising that elderly residents of Middle Tennessee have been victimized by a money scam that has resulted in the theft of hundreds of thousands of dollars.

Without getting too in-depth on the particulars of the scam, residents were contacted by an individual claiming to be a family member. The scammer asked victims to use a prepaid cell phone, which the scammers provided to the victims, and go to their bank and make substantial cash withdrawals. The amounts varied from $75,000 to $150,000. The scammers would talk the victims through the transactions on the cellphones, while at their bank. At one point, the scammers sent a taxi to pick up and transport the victims.

Following several large withdrawals from one middle Tennessee bank, the FBI was notified by bank management. In turn, Adult Protective Services became involved in an effort to prevent further victimization of those being scammed.

Those with elderly family members are being asked to speak with any at-risk individuals and advise them these types of scams may be targeting them and their savings. Bank employees are being asked to help protect at-risk customers and be on the lookout for these and other types of scams.

If you suspect you, a family member or friend may have been targeted by scammers, please contact your local law enforcement.