Chief's Corner: Beware of Government Imposter Scams

BPD continues to warn Bradenton citizens about popular, recurring scams that often target elderly citizens. Scammers use multiple tactics, but the goal is always to con victims into providing bank information, prepaid gift cards, or cryptocurrency. The government imposter scam and the jury duty scam are common.

Government imposter scams involve cons posing as members of law enforcement, the Social Security Administration, or the Internal Revenue Service with requests for information related to an investigation or other pressing issue.

Scammers demand payment or sensitive personal information with the threat of fines or legal consequences. Jury duty scams claim victims face fines or arrest for failure to report for duty.

• A government official will never call or send a text or email demanding money or personal information. Don’t trust caller ID. Scammers use spoofing to make calls appear to originate from a legitimate government agency phone number.
• Scammers may use the real names of government officials. If in doubt that a call is from a government agency, hang up and call the office directly.
• Do not wire money or use gift cards, cryptocurrency, or a payment app to pay someone you don’t know.
• Never click on links in unexpected emails, texts, or social media messages that claim to be from a government agency.

If you believe you've been a target or victim of fraud, contact the Bradenton Police Department immediately at 941-932-9300.