The Yuba City Police Department has issued a warning to residents about a concerning scam that has recently surfaced in California. The scam, colloquially known as the "dropped $20 bill" ruse, has seen multiple reports of adults having their debit cards stolen, particularly at grocery stores and ATMs.
Per police information, the scam unfolds in a specific sequence. Initially, suspects observe their victim entering their debit card's personal identification number (PIN) on a checkout keypad, typically at a grocery store. Subsequently, the suspects approach the unsuspecting individual, handing over a $20 bill while asserting that the victim dropped it.
However, the ploy doesn't end there. The suspect, shortly after, approaches the victim again, often in the parking lot, asking for the $20 bill to be returned. This is where the scam escalates. As the victim retrieves their wallet or purse, a second perpetrator distracts them, sometimes utilizing "exaggerated hand movements" and encroaching on their personal space, diverting the victim's attention. The initial suspect then discreetly swipes the debit card, typically without the victim being any wiser.
With the stolen card in their possession, the culprits swiftly proceed to make unauthorized purchases or cash withdrawals.
In light of these incidents, law enforcement officials are urging residents to exercise extreme caution when entering personal information or using their debit cards in public places. They recommend shielding the keypad when entering PIN numbers and being wary of unsolicited interactions with strangers, especially those involving money exchanges.