Brooksville, FL – Residents across Hernando County are being urged to stay alert as new reports show a rise in bitcoin and gift card scams targeting local community members this week. Deputies say the uptick includes digital messages, phone calls, and social media schemes designed to pressure victims into sending money or sharing personal information.
According to the Hernando County Sheriff’s Office, scammers are increasingly posing as government agencies, utility companies, or tech support representatives. Many of the fraudulent messages include urgent warnings or demands for payment using cryptocurrency or store gift cards—two forms of payment that are difficult to trace or recover once sent.
The department is directing residents to an online resource detailing the most common scams currently circulating in the region. The guide includes examples of red flags, step-by-step prevention tips, and instructions for reporting suspicious activity. Officials say reviewing this information could help prevent future financial losses, particularly for vulnerable populations such as seniors.
Sheriff’s officials emphasize that legitimate agencies will never request payment through bitcoin, prepaid cards, or digital gift cards. Anyone who receives such a request is encouraged to immediately stop communication and verify the source independently.
Residents who believe they may have fallen victim to a scam, or who have information about attempted fraud, are asked to contact the Hernando County Sheriff’s Office at 352-754-6830 or their local law enforcement agency.
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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