Door County, WI – Local authorities are warning residents about a scam circulating among church congregations in Door County, where fraudsters are impersonating church leaders to request money and gift cards.
According to the Door County Sheriff’s Office, members of a local congregation recently received fraudulent emails and text messages appearing to come from their pastor. The messages urged recipients to purchase and submit gift cards, claiming they would support a church-related need. In reality, deputies say, the funds went directly to the scammers.
The sheriff’s office emphasized that this is a recurring scam that has resurfaced in the area. Officials urge residents to verify all financial requests before responding, especially those involving gift cards, wire transfers, or digital payments.
Authorities advise anyone who receives a suspicious message to contact their church or organization directly using a verified phone number or email address—not the one provided in the message.
Residents are reminded to be skeptical of urgent or emotional appeals for money, even when they appear to come from familiar names.
This article was produced by a journalist and may include AI-assisted input. All content is reviewed for accuracy and fairness.
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