Naples Residents Beware: Scammers Impersonating Police Officers

Residents of Naples, Florida are being warned about a new scam that has been targeting individuals in the area. The scam involves fraudsters posing as police officers and using official police numbers and officer names to deceive their victims. This alarming trend has raised concerns among law enforcement officials and has prompted a public warning to help residents protect themselves from falling victim to this deceptive scheme.

How the Scam Works

The scammers involved in this scheme typically contact their victims via phone, claiming to be police officers investigating a crime or seeking information. They use official police numbers and officer names to make their calls seem legitimate and to instill a sense of authority. The scammers then proceed to request personal information, such as social security numbers, bank account details, or credit card information, under the guise of conducting an investigation or providing assistance.

It is important for residents to be aware that legitimate law enforcement agencies will never ask for sensitive personal information over the phone. If you receive a call from someone claiming to be a police officer and requesting such information, it is likely a scam and should be reported to the authorities immediately.

Protecting Yourself from Scams

To protect yourself from falling victim to scams like the one targeting Naples residents, it is important to exercise caution when receiving unsolicited calls or messages. If you are contacted by someone claiming to be a police officer or any other official authority figure, take the following steps to verify their identity:

• Ask for their badge number and department affiliation

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• Request a call-back number to verify their identity
• Do not provide any personal information until you have confirmed their legitimacy

Additionally, be wary of any requests for payment or financial information over the phone. Legitimate law enforcement agencies do not conduct business in this manner and will never ask for payment over the phone. If you suspect you have been targeted by a scam, report the incident to your local police department or the Federal Trade Commission.

Remaining Vigilant

As the prevalence of scams continues to rise, it is important for residents to remain vigilant and informed about the tactics used by fraudsters. By staying informed and taking proactive steps to protect yourself, you can reduce the risk of falling victim to these deceptive schemes.

Law enforcement officials are urging residents to be cautious when receiving unsolicited calls or messages and to report any suspicious activity to the authorities. By working together to combat these scams, we can help keep our community safe and secure from fraudulent activity.

Remember, if you receive a call from someone claiming to be a police officer and requesting personal information, take the necessary steps to verify their identity and report any suspicious activity to the authorities. By staying informed and proactive, we can protect ourselves and our community from falling victim to scams.

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Naples residents warned of scam using police numbers and officer names https://t.co/ljqFAlRMUR

— NBC2 News (WBBH-TV) (@NBC2) July 9, 2024

Source

NBC2 said Naples residents warned of scam using police numbers and officer names