Cape Girardeau County deputies warn of increase in scam messages

FOX23 News at 9 p.m

CAPE GIRARDEAU COUNTY, Mo., (KBSI) — The Cape Girardeau County Sheriff’s Office is warning residents about an increase in scam messages circulating through text messages, emails, social media and phone calls.

Officials said scammers commonly claim victims owe unpaid traffic fines, missed jury duty fees, toll violations or other urgent payments in an effort to pressure people into clicking links or sending money.

The sheriff’s office reminded residents that government agencies do not demand immediate payment through unsolicited text messages and noted that official government websites end in “.gov.”

Authorities also warned that scammers often use threats, urgency and fear to pressure victims into acting quickly.

Residents are encouraged not to click suspicious links, provide personal or financial information, and to delete and block suspicious messages.

The sheriff’s office also urged the public to help spread awareness, especially among elderly family members who are often targeted by scams.