SPD issues fraud alert
The Sanibel Police Department (SPD) reported that an applicant for a city of Sanibel development permit recently received a fraudulent invoice through email stating that the applicant’s permit was approved and requested payment through a wire transfer.
The fraudulent email used a city employee’s name and included information to make the invoice appear official and legitimate. Fortunately, the applicant notified city staff, and the SPD is investigating.
The city will never request payment through a wire transfer.
If anyone receives a similar email with an invoice from the city requesting money to be transferred via wire transfer, notify the SPD at 239-472-3111.
The SPD noted that anyone can fall victim to fraud. Cyber-criminals use deception, urgency and emotional manipulation to steal personal information or money through fraudulent targeted phishing scams.
It offered the following tips to protect oneself:
– Verify requests: Never provide personal or financial information.
– Stay skeptical: Legitimate organizations will never demand payment via wire transfers, cryptocurrency or prepaid gift cards.
– Hang up and call back: Hang up and call the agency or company directly.
– Avoid unsolicited tech support: Do not allow remote access to your computer.
– Check before you click: Do not click on unknown links; go to the official websites.
– Guard your money: Requests for wire transfers, prepaid cards or cryptocurrency are red flags for fraud.
If you suspect a scam, trust your instincts and report potential cybercrimes to the SPD at 239-472-3111.