NORTH ADAMS, Mass. — The North Adams Police Department is warning area residents of a phone scam that's making the rounds.

The scam involves being contacted by phone by someone from a foreign country. The caller claims that a family member is being held in a foreign jail and needs help being bailed out. The caller then requests that cash be sent to an address in that country. The caller also tries to intimidate the person by telling them not to report what is going on because it could jeopardize the safety of the family member.

Detectives who have spoken to the victims say the scammer have used the called the family member by name adding to the validity of the call. The public should be aware that any information that they put out on social media sites is subject to being viewed by these scammers.

While the current scam is being perpetrated by foriegn sources, iBerkshires is also aware of attempts at a similar scam in which victims are informed that a family member has been arrested within the country, such as New York City. The scammer identifies himself as an attorney or friend seeking bail money.

If you are contacted by someone using this scam or any other, seek advice before sending any money or providing any account information. The following steps should be used:

1.  Write down any information they give you.

2.  Do not send money or give account information over the phone, by mail or over the Internet.

3.  Contact other family members to see if, in fact the named family member is really out of town.  

4.  Contact your local police department and make them aware of the scam.

Use common sense and be aware that these type of scams are out there.