CHILLICOTHE, OH (Feb. 2, 2026) — A 63-year-old woman was scammed out of $6,900 this week in a sophisticated phone scam, according to Chillicothe police.
Officers were called to the Law Enforcement Complex after the woman reported receiving a series of phone calls from unknown individuals claiming to represent Apple and the Federal Communications Commission (FCC).
The victim, who asked to remain anonymous, told investigators that on January 22 while at work at Dunham Sporting Goods on North Bridge Street, she received a call from a woman claiming there was an issue involving child pornography. The caller then transferred her to a man who said the FCC was investigating the matter and threatened that she could face prison if she did not comply.
The man instructed the victim to pay $6,900 in gift cards to resolve the alleged issue. She withdrew the funds from her bank account and purchased Lowe’s gift cards, which she provided the caller’s information for. The following day, the caller attempted to get her to provide more funds, accusing her of lying. It was only afterward that she realized she had been scammed and reported the incident to her bank and local authorities.
Police say the investigation is ongoing, and at this time, there is no suspect information available. Authorities are reminding the public to be cautious of phone calls demanding money or gift cards, especially when threats or high-pressure tactics are involved.
