MONROE COUNTY, Fla. – The Monroe County Sheriff’s Office is issuing an urgent warning to residents about a recent increase in phone and text scams where criminals are impersonating law enforcement and jail officials to defraud unsuspecting victims.
Over the past week, the Sheriff’s Office has received multiple reports of scammers falsely identifying themselves as deputies or other law enforcement personnel.
These criminals are fabricating stories about missed jury duty, outstanding warrants, or other fabricated legal issues to coerce victims into sending money.
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The Sheriff’s Office is urging residents to take the following precautions:
- Hang Up and Verify: If you receive a call or text demanding money from someone claiming to be from law enforcement, a government agency, utility company, bank, or credit card company, hang up immediately. Contact the organization directly using a verified phone number.
- Beware of Gift Cards and Bitcoin: Any request for payment via gift cards or Bitcoin is a major red flag. Legitimate agencies do not use these payment methods.
- Verify Distress Calls: If you receive an urgent message from a family member or friend asking for money, contact them directly before sending any funds.
- Report Suspicious Activity: Save any suspicious texts, emails, or call details and report them to the Sheriff’s Office through their official website, www.keysso.net/locations, or by calling their non-emergency number.
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The Monroe County Sheriff’s Office encourages residents to share this warning with their families, friends, and neighbors to help prevent them from becoming victims of these scams.
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