A new variation to an old scam has recently appeared in Medina and two residents have become victims of the scam, police there say.

The scam begins when the victim receives a phone call from someone claiming to be a family member (son, daughter, grandchild) or an attorney representing their family member. The suspect tells the victim their family member has been arrested in Canada for DUI, and bail money or legal fees are needed. The victim is then directed to a local office of a money wiring firm to wire the funds to Canada.

Frequently the victim will receive another call after they have wired the initial funds, with the suspect telling them more money is needed and the process repeats itself. Both of the Medina victims have lost over $4,000 each as a result of this scam.

The Medina Police Department is investigating the scam and working in conjunction with Canadian authorities in the hopes of identifying those responsible.

Medina Police offer the following tips:

* To prevent falling victim to this type of scam, always confirm the information being given by calling another family member to verify if your relative is even out of the area. Or, if possible, attempt to contact the family member in question.

* Attempt to verify who you are speaking with on the phone. Request a full name and badge number if they claim to be a law enforcement officer. Confirm the agency or business name, and locate a direct business number to call them back.

* When in doubt, call your local law enforcement agency for guidance.