Blessing Scam Exploits Cultural Fears
Police have issued a warning about a “blessing scam” targeting elderly people, particularly from Asian backgrounds. Scammers convince victims, often elderly Chinese women, that their family is in danger from spirits and that their wealth needs to be “blessed” for protection.
In one case, a 76-year-old woman in Campsie was approached by a woman claiming her daughter would be seriously injured unless her wealth was blessed. The victim exchanged cash and jewelry for a “blessed” bag of rice and water. Another similar scam took place in Cabramatta, where a 71-year-old woman was told her son would have a car accident unless she handed over money and jewelry, which were swapped for a plastic bag claimed to be magical.
The scammers, all described as Asian women in their 40s, use fear and cultural beliefs to manipulate their victims. Police advise the public to never give personal details or valuables to anyone making such claims. Anyone with information should contact Crime Stoppers at 1800 333 000.
Source police.nsw.gov.au