The latest ploy by scammers seems to be forged checks and playing “grandson.” DeFuniak Springs Police have had reports of scammers trying to swindle money out of citizen’s accounts. One recent would be victim reported that she has puppies for sale and had posted an advertisement on social media. A person, claiming to be interested in purchasing two puppies contacted them and agreed to pay $900 for the puppies. The scammer sent a check for $2,000. The scammer requested that the victim cash the check and wire the difference. The check turned out to be a forgery.
In another scam, an elderly citizen received a call from a man claiming to be her grandson. The scammer actually called the victim “Grandma.” The suspect was attempting to get money for a recent car accident and stated he had been arrested. Fortunately, the victim recognized that the caller was not her grandson and advised him that she had no money. The scammer hung up after the victim told him to contact his parents.
TIPS TO PREVENT BEING SCAMMED:
-Don’t give personal information out unless you know the person requesting is genuine
-Verify any calls received by advising the representative you will call them back at the number you have on file.
-Legitimate companies and government agencies would never ask you to purchase a prepaid debit/gift card. Also be suspicious of requests to use money sending services.
-Checks from unknown parties should be cashed or deposited with caution. Many scammers will send a fraudulent check in attempts to get money from their victims.
If you are unsure of the legitimacy of a phone call or letter you received, don’t give them your personal or financial information. Please call the DeFuniak Springs Police at 892-8513 or your local law enforcement agency for help.