Before scammers strike: Sheriff Doug Rader talks scam awareness on Oct. 7
It can start with something as simple as a phone call, a text about a package you weren’t expecting or an email that looks like it came from someone you know. In just a few moments, a scammer can turn what appears to be an ordinary message into an attempt to gain your trust, your personal information or your money.
And one local sheriff is taking action to help residents recognize the warning signs before they become the next target.
Stone County Sheriff Doug Rader is working to bring scam awareness directly to the community, with a particular concern for scams targeting senior adults.
“It’s important to keep spreading the word about scams because every day someone is targeting our senior adults,” Rader said.
Rader talked with the Globe about the prevalence of scams and why education continues to be important. He said Stone County has a large retiree population, and many residents willingly support local organizations, including law enforcement and fire departments. That trust can be used by scammers who falsely claim to represent organizations residents know.
“The thing about our area is that we have a lot of retirees. They love donating to the sheriff’s department, to the fire department,” Rader said. “It only takes one scam call from someone they believe they can trust, and they could lose everything they’ve worked for.”
As part of his continuing effort to educate residents, Rader will present the next in a series of scam awareness programs at 6 p.m. Wednesday, Oct. 7, at Woodland Hills. The presentation will focus on scams affecting area residents and ways people can recognize warning signs and protect their personal and financial information.
Scam attempts can take many forms. Rader pointed to phishing emails, fraudulent phone calls and text messages claiming a package has been delayed as examples of what residents may encounter. Scammers may also impersonate someone the recipient knows or trusts in an effort to get a response.
Before sending money or providing banking or personal information, residents should slow down and independently verify who is contacting them.
For Rader, continuing the presentations is about keeping information in front of residents as scammers find new ways to reach potential victims. Recognizing the warning signs and taking the time to verify an unexpected request can help residents protect themselves, their families and their finances.
For more information on upcoming scam awareness presentations, follow the Stone County Sheriff’s Office Facebook page.
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