New incidents of an elderly distraction scam – a fake acid spill – have been reported again in Florida, particularly South Florida, according to the Palm Beach County Sheriff’s Office.
Officials said PBSO has not worked any cases involving this scam. The information being distributed is for awareness.
PBSO said the target is usually an elderly female, and items stolen are usually rings or bracelets being worn by the victim.
According to the sheriff’s office, an unknown subject or subjects con their way into a home, stating there’s a problem with the water quality or water pressure. He or they say are testing the system because a neighbor has a leak, or they are spraying for insects.
Sometimes, two individuals will gain entry. They will either bring their own glass or ask the target for a cup or glass, into which they will pour 
water and then will add Alka-Seltzer or some other bromide or color agent.
They will then “accidentally” spill a liquid on the victim’s hands. The woman is told it is acid and that she should remove her jewelry and wash her hands immediately, or she may be told to go flush all the toilets multiple times, or run the water. Sometimes they will ask for a glass of milk to soak the jewelry. While the victim is continually told to keep washing her hands, or running the water, the thieves pocket the jewelry & flee the scene.
PBSO said targets of the crime may be followed home from stores like Costco, Wal-Mart, Publix, or a flea market.
Anyone with information about this or other type of scam is urged to contact Crime Stoppers at 1-800-458-TIPS.