From the Marathon County Sheriff

Elder Scam Awareness — Protect Yourself and Loved Ones

Scams targeting older adults are increasing across Wisconsin — including right here in Marathon County.
Scammers use fear, urgency, and emotional manipulation to steal money or personal information.
Below are common scams and how to protect yourself.

"Grandparent" Scams

In a notable 2022 case, three elderly residents lost over $83,400 to a "grandparent" scam.
Scammers convinced the victims their granddaughters were in a car crash, arrested, and needed money for bail.
A suspect was later arrested after showing up in person to collect the cash.

These scams often begin with a phone call from someone pretending to be a grandchild or police officer.
The caller creates panic and secrecy, saying things like:

“Don’t tell anyone — I need help right away.”

They pressure the victim to withdraw cash or buy gift cards.
Never send money or give personal information before verifying the story with family. Hang up and call your grandchild or another relative directly.

Cryptocurrency Scams or the Reverse ATM scam

Authorities in nearby Wisconsin Rapids have reported victims losing hundreds of thousands of dollars after being pressured to move money into cryptocurrency accounts or use Bitcoin ATMs.

Scammers may pose as investment advisors, government agents, or even law enforcement.
They claim your bank account is at risk or offer “can’t-miss” investment opportunities.
Once your money is moved to cryptocurrency, it’s nearly impossible to recover.

Be cautious of anyone who asks you to invest in cryptocurrency or use a Bitcoin ATM.
Always talk to your bank or a trusted financial advisor before transferring funds.

Tech Support / Investment Scams

The Wisconsin Department of Financial Institutions (DFI) reports a surge in tech support and fake investment scams.
These often begin with unsolicited messages or pop-up warnings claiming to be from Microsoft, Apple, or your bank.

Tech support scammers may say your computer is infected and ask for remote access or payment to fix it.
Investment scammers use “financial grooming” — they build trust online, sometimes posing as a friend or romantic interest, and later push fake cryptocurrency investments.

Legitimate companies will never ask for remote access or payment by phone.
Never invest money based on an unsolicited message or online contact.

Medicare Scams

The Better Business Bureau (BBB) has warned Marathon County residents about unsolicited calls from people pretending to be with Medicare to get personal information.
Medicare does not make unsolicited calls.

Scammers may claim they’re sending out a new card, refund, or coverage update and ask for your Medicare or Social Security number.
This information can be used for identity theft or fake medical billing.

Hang up immediately if you receive an unexpected call about Medicare.
Call 1-800-MEDICARE directly to confirm any legitimate issue.

Romance Scams

Romance scams happen when criminals form fake online relationships — often through Facebook or dating apps.
After gaining trust, they claim an emergency (like travel or medical bills) and ask for financial help.

Victims may send thousands of dollars believing they’re helping someone they care about.
Be cautious with anyone you haven’t met in person who asks for money or personal details.

Utility or Impersonation Scams

Scammers may pose as representatives from WE Energies, the IRS, or even the Sheriff’s Department, threatening power shutoffs or arrest unless payment is made immediately.

They often demand payment through gift cards, wire transfers, or cryptocurrency.
Always verify by calling the company or agency using the official number — not the one in the message.

Lottery or Prize Scams

Victims receive a call, text, or letter claiming they’ve won money or a prize but must pay taxes or fees first.
Once payment is sent, the scammer disappears.

If you didn’t enter a contest, you didn’t win.
Real lotteries never require upfront fees to collect winnings.

Online Marketplace Scams

These scams often occur on Facebook Marketplace, Craigslist, or similar sites.
Scammers send fake payment confirmations or overpay with a bad check, asking for a refund before the check clears.

Never ship items or send money until payment clears, and meet in a public location for local transactions.

General Red Flags of a Scam

• Pressure to act immediately

• Requests for secrecy (“Don’t tell anyone”)

• Demands for payment by gift card, cryptocurrency, or wire transfer

• Caller ID spoofing to look local or official

• Poor grammar or spelling in texts and emails

• Promises of prizes, refunds, or guaranteed investments

Remember: Government agencies, Medicare, and banks will never ask for payment or personal information by phone, text, or email.

Protect Yourself

• Slow down — think before you send money or share information.

• Talk to someone you trust if a message or call feels suspicious.

• Register your phone on the Do Not Call List.

• Report suspicious messages at reportfraud.ftc.gov.

• Check scam alerts from the Wisconsin Department of Justice and the BBB.

• Never be embarrassed to report — you’re helping protect others.

Reporting Scams is Important

Call the Sheriff’s Department. Don’t be embarrassed — be smart. Report all scams.

If you suspect an elder adult has been a victim of abuse or financial exploitation, contact:

Marathon County Adult Protective Services (APS):
715-841-5160 or toll-free 855-487-3338

Wisconsin Elder Abuse Hotline:
1-833-586-0107
ReportElderAbuseWI.org

Marathon County Sheriff’s Office:
715-261-1200 or your local law enforcement agency
For emergencies, call 911