The Lake City Police Department (LCPD) is warning residents about a scam targeting elderly women that was recently reported in local bank and grocery store parking lots.

According to an LCPD release sent Friday, the incidents involve a suspect approaching elderly women inside grocery stores or store parking lots who start a friendly conversation with the victim. The suspects claim to be church members to gain the victim’s trust and, during the conversation, claim they have a bag containing a large amount of money that they suggest sharing with the victim.

The suspects then convince the victim to accompany them to a local bank and withdraw cash from the victim’s personal account. The victim is told by the suspect that the money must be placed into the bag with the money the suspect already claims to have.

According to the release, a second suspect sometimes approaches and pretends not to know the first suspect but reinforces the story to distract the victim. During the encounter, one of the suspects leaves the vehicle or scene with the victim’s money.

The LCPD is investigating multiple incidents involving the scam and believes the suspects are intentionally targeting elderly individuals.

The LCPD encourages residents to follow these safety tips:

• Do not share personal or financial information with strangers.

• Do not withdraw money from your bank at the request of someone you do not know.

• Be cautious of individuals who approach you in parking lots or stores with stories involving requests for help.

• If you feel uncomfortable or suspect a scam, leave the area and contact law enforcement immediately.

• If you have elderly family members, please discuss this scam with them so they are aware of how it works.

Anyone with information regarding any crime is encouraged to contact LCPD at 386-752-4343 or report information anonymously through the LCPD TIPS line at 386-719-2068 or Crime Stoppers of Columbia County at 386-754-7099.