Brevard Sheriff’s Economic Crimes Task Force Working to Thwart Aggressive Telephone Scammers

By  //  June 27, 2020

scammer pretends to be the victim’s grandchild, law enforcement, or an attorney

The Brevard County Sheriff’s Office Economic Crimes Task Force is currently working an aggressive telephone scam targeting Brevard County citizens.

BREVARD COUNTY, FLORIDA – The Brevard County Sheriff’s Office Economic Crimes Task Force is currently working an aggressive telephone scam targeting Brevard County citizens.

The scam begins with the caller pretending to be the victim’s grandchild, law enforcement, or an attorney, asking for bail money or other legal fees for the victim’s grandchild.

The caller alleges that the grandchild was in an accident with injuries or has other serious legal issues, in which payment by the victim will aid the grandchild.

The scammers appear to have information regarding the victim’s grandchild’s name, nicknames for the grandparent/grandchild, addresses, telephone number, and other personal information most likely obtained through social media and other internet sources.

Scammers direct the victim to withdraw funds from their financial institution and wait for an individual to arrive and collect the funds from their residence.

The scammers are possibly using rideshare companies as couriers for the scheme. They then call the victim for a second time after the funds are retrieved from the residence.

During the second call, scammers ask for additional funds to be sent via wire or mailing service.

“While this is not a new scam, it is one that has recently resurfaced in large fashion, so please as a reminder never fall victim to these types of scams or engage in conversation with those that are contacting you to solicit funds in any capacity,” said Sherriff Wayne Ivey.

“Never send cash, pay with gift cards or utilize money transfer applications regarding threats of bonds, arrest, fines or deportation, and lastly remember, if you truly believe a family member is in trouble contact your local Law Enforcement agency about your concerns.”

If you have questions about scams or think you have been a victim of this or another type of fraud call your local law enforcement agency to file a report.

– Sheriff Wayne Ivey

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