Groton — Groton town police warned residents Wednesday about a telephone scam targeting area homes and businesses under the guise of supporting Shennecossett Golf Course. 

In the scam, a male caller, using a phone number associated with a Virginia area code, contacts businesses and individual residents, according to a police department news release. 

The caller identifies himself as project coordinator for the Shennecossett Golf Course and gives a sales pitch for sponsorship opportunities.

He has no association with the golf course or the Town of Groton, the news release said.

The scam is being used nationwide, with the name of the golf course changed to fit the area, the release said.

People who have been victims of the scam are urged to call their credit card company immediately and report it to the local police department.