Warning Against Online Scams
Shopping centers in Florida are warning about a surge in online scams targeting the general public through social media platforms. Authorities are urging individuals to be cautious when making online transactions and to verify the authenticity of sellers.
Emilio Rodríguez, a correspondent, reports that despite efforts by law enforcement, the scammers remain at large. The scam typically involves individuals using photographs of legitimate businesses to deceive victims into sending money or merchandise at significantly discounted prices.
According to a member of the Board, “Scammers are using the names of Florida businesses to deceive people. They create fake profiles with company logos, phone numbers, and even names of officials within the company. It’s possible that the scammers may have inside information about the companies they’re impersonating.”
The scammers are also using interior photos of the businesses, which can make the scam appear even more convincing. As a result, business owners are on high alert. Since the start of January, there have been six reported scams involving significant amounts of money, affecting not only local residents but also people from other departments.
Prevention is Key
To avoid falling victim to these scams, it is essential to exercise caution when making online transactions. Authorities recommend verifying the authenticity of sellers and being wary of deals that seem too good to be true.