CashApp scams reported involving large sums of money

The Sheriff’s Office is receiving reports of Keys residents being targeted by criminals/scammers using CashApp and similar mobile payment or money transfer services available on cell phones.

The scams usually start with a text by a scammer claiming to be law enforcement, a bank, or the IRS, to name a few.

The victim is then sent a barcode that can be scanned at most pharmacies, gas stations, or similar businesses, allowing large amounts of money to be transferred. In some instances, Key residents have transferred tens of thousands of dollars to these criminals.

Often, the scammer provides a fake story about a fake crime such as missing jury duty, or some fake financial oversight such as fake missed house payments, or perhaps a fake story about a family member falsely in need. The scammer usually threatens the victim with false claims of arrest.

The thieves often ask for information such as the victim’s full name, address, passport, phone number, and other personal information, as well as money for fake administration costs.

NOTE: These criminals are often using the names of real Sheriff’s Office members and often use phone numbers that appear real on caller ID. They also use computer software that may mimic the voice of a real public official or loved one. In the past, scammers have even posed as Sheriff Rick Ramsay.

• Law enforcement, government organizations, banks, utilities, or reputable business professionals will never call or text you in this way and will never ask for money via gift cards or an electronic financial transfer network/services/app such as CashApp, Zelle, PayPal, or Venmo — a sure sign you are being scammed!

• Always hang up and contact the government organization, family member, or the company the caller claims to be affiliated with.

• Call the Sheriff’s Office Substation nearest your location to report the scam: www.keysso.net/locations

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