Milwaukee police: Suspect in virtual pickpocketing scam believed to be young boy
MILWAUKEE (CBS 58) -- Milwaukee police are sharing new information about a cellphone scam you should be aware of.
Here's how the scam works: A young boy in a scooter will ask to use your phone, and when you're not looking he uses the Cash App or Apple Pay to pay himself.
Milwaukee police confirmed to CBS 58, the boy allegedly running the expensive scam is between 10 to 13 years old. He's described as an African American boy standing 5' tall with a short Afro.
"It didn't seem like there was harmful intent in that moment," said Anyon Rettinger, who was scammed out of $5,000.
"He was very polite, very respectful, real just warm," said Kara Vercimak who was scammed out of $1,100.
They said the scammer insisted on texting instead of calling, saying his mother had a government phone that didn't take calls. That allowed the scammer access to their apps.
Milwaukee Police Department Sgt. Efrain Cornejo said, the department knows of at least two people who've been victimized by the child. He said there are likely more.
"I believe there's other people who have had contact with this individual or at least someone trying to do the similar circumstances," said Sgt. Cornejo.
Sgt. Cornejo warns the public to be extra cautious, especially with financial apps.
"Whatever financial apps that you do use, add a two-factor verification prior...that would require someone to enter a code or use other means of a second security that adds an extra layer of protection," said Sgt. Cornejo.
He said that the most important suggestion is to not lend your phone to any stranger, even if it’s a child.
Milwaukee police said they are still seeking the unknown suspect and urge any who has been victimized or has encountered the scammer to contact police at (414) 935-7360 or to remain anonymous, contact Crime Stoppers at (414) 224-Tips or P3 Tips.