NEWS RELEASE

Several Scams have been recently brought to the attention of Vero Beach Police Department. I would like to remind our residents to stay safe and be alert if you encounter the following situations:

– Calls from “Technical Service” or “Technical Support” that prompt you to go to your computer immediately and follow their directions are a SCAM. The caller on the line may falsely inform you that should you fail to follow their instructions your Internet provider will shut off service immediately and/or “for a year”. Do not provide any personal information or enter anything into your computer. Hang up the phone and do not answer calls from the same number.

– E-mails from a friend who asks you to send them money while they are stuck in a foreign country without their phone or luggage are a SCAM. Do not reply and attempt to contact your friend directly via telephone or in person to confirm that everything is alright.

– With tax season upon us, you may receive e-mails from trustworthy organizations (IRS, government organizations, financial institutions) that may look suspicious and request PINs or personal information. Just remember, IRS will NEVER contact tax payers via e-mail, text messages or social media. If you have an inquiry, always address it through the official website of the IRS, http://www.irs.gov

As always, report any suspicious activity to Vero Beach Police Department and stay safe and vigilant!