A Smithfield woman lost $4,000 in an online scam. Authorities say it is unlikely she will get her money back.
It happened last week. The 81 year-old victim received a notification through a social media site she had won a $20,000 sweepstakes. The only thing she had to do was to send in $4,000 to cover the taxes and her money would be sent right away.
After wiring the money, the victim never received anything. Smithfield Police said this is a widespread scam and unfortunately the individuals behind the scams often prey on elderly people.
