Beware of fake fire marshal scam

Thieves are falsely claiming to represent the Monroe County Fire Marshal’s Office and are charging residents/businesses $200 or more for fake inspections. In one instance, a Key Largo-based business received a fake invoice via email in which the scammers illegally used the Monroe County seal on official-looking documents.

If you receive anything similar, do not send money, and report the incident to the Sheriff’s Office.

The Sheriff’s Office also continues to warn residents of gift card-related scams wherein thieves pose as law enforcement — in some cases as Sheriff Rick Ramsay.

Residents should be wary of any email/text/phone call they receive from anyone claiming to be law enforcement, fire, or another government official, especially those seeking money/gift card information — a sure sign you are being scammed!

Typically, the scammers will claim you’ve missed jury duty, are delinquent on a fake fire-related inspection, have an outstanding warrant, or made some other false legal violation. Hang up/delete the text or email and contact the Monroe County Sheriff’s Office directly via www.keysso.net/locations

Be wary of online banking scams available on mobile or other electronic devices involving monetary platforms such as CashApp, PayPal, Venmo, or Zelle.

If someone calls/emails/texts you asking for money, purporting to be from your bank, law enforcement, fire official, credit card company, the government, a charitable organization, or anyone else — never provide money over the phone/text. Always verify all emails with the appropriate corresponding agency.

[livemarket market_name="KONK Life LiveMarket" limit=3 category=“” show_signup=0 show_more=0]