Sanford, FL – Residents across Seminole County are being warned to stay alert after scammers allegedly began impersonating law enforcement officers and demanding immediate payments for fines or warrants.
According to the Seminole County Sheriff’s Office, the agency will never contact residents by phone, text message, or email to demand payment for fines using Bitcoin, gift cards, or cash. Officials say any message claiming otherwise should be treated as fraudulent and ignored.
The warning was issued Friday after multiple reports of scam communications targeting county residents. In these cases, scammers allegedly pose as deputies or court officials and attempt to pressure victims into making urgent payments, often threatening arrest or legal consequences if payment is not made immediately.
The sheriff’s office emphasized that legitimate law enforcement agencies do not collect fines through electronic payment apps, cryptocurrency, prepaid gift cards, or cash pickups. Any demand using those methods is considered a major red flag.
Authorities urge residents in Seminole County, including Sanford, Altamonte Springs, Oviedo, and surrounding Central Florida communities, to avoid engaging with suspicious callers or messages. Victims or targets of these scams are encouraged to report the incident to local law enforcement and the Federal Trade Commission.
Officials also recommend discussing scam tactics with elderly family members, who are often targeted in impersonation schemes, and reminding loved ones never to share personal or financial information with unsolicited callers.
Anyone who believes they may have already sent money or information should contact their bank immediately and file a police report as soon as possible.
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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