Public Safety Alert: Beware of Common Scams and Fraud Schemes

Scammers continue to target people of all ages using convincing stories, urgent demands, and emotional manipulation. Staying informed is one of the best ways to protect yourself and your loved ones. Below is an overview of several common scams currently affecting communities, along with tips to help you recognize and avoid fraud.

🚨 Common Scams to Watch Out For

Grandparent Scam
In this scam, criminals call or message pretending to be a grandchild—or someone calling on their behalf—claiming there is an emergency such as an accident or arrest. They pressure the victim to send money immediately and often beg the victim not to tell anyone.

Arrest Warrant / Law Enforcement Scam
Scammers pose as police officers, court officials, or federal agents, claiming you have an outstanding arrest warrant or unpaid fines. They threaten immediate arrest unless payment is made right away. Real law enforcement agencies do not demand payment over the phone, by text, by Bitcoin, or via gift cards.

Overpayment Scam
Often targeting sellers, scammers send a check or payment for more than the agreed amount and ask for a refund of the difference. The original payment later turns out to be fake, leaving the victim responsible for the refunded money.

Romance Scam
Scammers build online relationships through dating apps or social media, gaining trust over time. Eventually, they create a crisis and ask for money, gifts, or financial help. These scams are emotionally damaging and financially costly.

🎁 Unique Method of Payment = Scam Warning

If anyone asks you to pay using gift cards or to provide gift card numbers, it is a scam.
Legitimate businesses, government agencies, and law enforcement never request payment via gift cards, prepaid cards, or cryptocurrency.

✅ Helpful Tips to Protect Yourself

• Slow down and don’t act on urgency or threats.
• Never share personal or financial information with unsolicited callers or messages.
• Be cautious of calls, texts, emails, or messages you weren’t expecting.
• Verify claims independently by contacting a trusted family member or official source.
• Don’t click on suspicious links or open unexpected attachments.
• Talk openly with family members—especially seniors—about common scams.
• Remember: “If it is too good to be true, it most likely is a scam.”

📞 When in Doubt, Ask for Help

If you are unsure whether something is a scam, contact your local police department. They can help determine if the situation is legitimate and advise on next steps. Reporting scams also helps protect others in the community.

Staying informed, alert, and willing to ask questions is the best defense against fraud. Share this information with friends, family, and neighbors to help keep everyone safe.