MONROE COUNTY, Fla. – The Monroe County Sheriff’s Office is warning residents about multiple internet, computer, and gift card-related scams this week.
In each case, the victim is notified by someone falsely claiming to be from Microsoft, Facebook, or an internet provider stating the victim’s computer, internet access, or bank account was compromised in some way.
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In each case, the scammer states they can rectify the issue after receiving payment in the form of gift cards.
In one case, the victim was contacted by someone claiming to be from the United Nations Development Program requesting gift card donations.
The criminals sometimes use real law enforcement phone numbers and often will use real local law enforcement officers’ names during some scams.
Some residents have previously reported getting calls from someone posing as Sheriff Rick Ramsay.
If you receive a call from a law enforcement agency, utility company, government agency, internet provider, computer company, or other business, hang up and contact the agency for verification.
Authorities advise you should never pay for anything over the phone with gift cards, this is a sure sign you are getting scammed. As well as never giving personal, monetary, or gift card information to anyone over the phone, in a text, or in an email.
Anyone with information about any crimes should contact the Sheriff’s Office at 305-292-7000.
Callers who wish to remain anonymous can call Crime Stoppers at 1-866-471-8477.