07/14/2026
SCAM ALERT: Fraudsters Are Becoming More Sophisticated
The Mesquite Police Department is warning our community about an increase in sophisticated fraud schemes targeting people of all ages. These criminals are highly convincing and often spend days or even weeks building trust before asking for money or valuables. For the next several days, we will put out additional information about each specific scam. Today is an overview.
One of the fastest growing scams involves criminals posing as government agencies, law enforcement officers, banks, or financial institutions. Victims are falsely told their money is at risk due to fraud or an ongoing investigation and are instructed to withdraw cash, purchase gold or other valuables, or transfer funds to "protect" their assets. In some cases, a courier is sent directly to the victim's home to collect the money or valuables.
Unfortunately, these scams don't stop there. We are also seeing:
- Individuals impersonating family members claiming to be in jail or involved in an emergency and urgently needing money.
- Scammers posing as utility companies threatening to disconnect service unless immediate payment is made.
- Fake computer or technical support representatives claiming your computer has been hacked or infected with a virus.
- Romance scams where criminals build online relationships before requesting money.
- Investment and cryptocurrency scams promising guaranteed returns or exclusive opportunities.
- Text messages and emails claiming unpaid tolls, package delivery problems, or account issues that direct victims to fake websites designed to steal personal and financial information.
Protect Yourself:
✅ Never send money, purchase gift cards, buy gold, or transfer cryptocurrency because someone contacts you unexpectedly.
✅ No legitimate government agency or law enforcement officer will ask you to withdraw your money, buy gold, or hand your valuables to a courier for "safekeeping."
✅ Be suspicious of anyone creating a sense of urgency or telling you to keep the situation secret.
✅ Never provide personal information, banking details, passwords, or verification codes to someone who contacts you unexpectedly.
✅ If you receive a suspicious call, hang up and contact the agency, business, or family member directly using a phone number you know is legitimate.
If you believe you are being targeted by a scam or if something simply doesn't feel right stop the conversation and contact the Mesquite Police Department before taking any action. A quick phone call could prevent the loss of your hard earned savings.
Please share this post with your family, friends, and neighbors. Together, we can help protect our community from becoming victims of fraud.
