“Know the facts so you don’t become the next victim” – Chief Pamela Davis
The Punta Gorda Police Department routinely receives calls for service regarding citizens being defrauded out of thousands of dollars. The Police Department asks that you please call the department if you receive a suspicious phone call, voicemail, email, text, or literature via U.S. Mail asking for funds in any way. Legitimate organizations such as the FBI, FP&L, IRS, and Police Departments will NOT solicit payment via gift cards. Most scammers request funds in the form of gift cards. Most importantly, NEVER provide your personal information such as social security numbers or banking information over the phone or through email. Before you become a victim, Call before you pay. Punta Gorda Police Non-Emergency Number: (941) 639-4111
COMMON SCAMS
Incarcerated Family Member – Scammers will call advising a loved one has been arrested and needs bond money.
IRS – Call stating taxes are delinquent and need to be paid via gift cards.
FP&L – Call stating your power bill is past due and request payment in the form of a gift card.
Family Member in Crash – Call advising a loved one has been in a vehicle crash and needs immediate funds.
Craigslist – Scammers will send checks worth more than the value of the item listed for sale and then ask for a refund. However, the original check is fake.
Computer Virus – Scammers will obtain access to your computer, advising that they are able to clear the virus, but request funds in advance via credit card.
Facebook – Scammers contact you via Facebook stating they have information about you that they will leak to family and friends if they are not provided with funds.
Home Rental – Scammers advertise a home for rent that they do not own and collect down payment.
Texts – Do not click on links that come in via text messages. Scammers pose as legitimate businesses such as banks and streaming services to gain access to your mobile device. Once the link is opened, scammers have direct access to your personal information from your device.
