SACO, Maine — Police have arrested a Texas man in connection with an organized tech support scam that targeted a Saco resident, according to the Saco Police Department.
Investigators say the scam involved suspects posing as technology support representatives who falsely claimed hackers had gained access to victims’ computers and personal accounts. Victims were then instructed to install remote access software and transfer money or purchase gold under the guise of securing their assets.
Detectives working with the FBI identified 27-year-old Elon Harper of Dallas as a courier allegedly sent to collect gold from the Maine victim. Authorities arrested Harper on Friday and charged him with theft by deception.
Harper is currently being held at the York County Jail in Alfred on $250,000 bail. He is scheduled to make his first court appearance on March 18.
Police warned that scammers often rely on stolen or publicly available personal information to make their claims seem credible. Victims are pressured into quickly handing over money or valuables before realizing the deception.
The Saco Police Department encouraged anyone who believes they may have been targeted by a similar scam to contact local law enforcement. Officials also urged residents to educate family members and friends about tech support fraud to help prevent future incidents.
