Fraud: The crime that ignores gates and patrol cars
As the liaison to the Marion County Sheriff’s Office, I stay in close contact with their staff to stay informed about crime trends affecting our community. On Top of the World continues to enjoy one of the lowest crime rates in Florida. Property crimes such as burglaries and thefts are practically non-existent here – thanks to gated access, frequent deputy patrols, an active volunteer citizen patrol, well-maintained properties, and neighbors who look out for one another.
However, one type of crime is on the rise – and it’s one that gates and patrol cars can’t stop: fraud.
In 2023, scammers stole more than $3.4 billion from Americans over the age of 60. Here in Marion County, the average monthly loss to fraud is approximately $1.5 million. At this rate, residents in our county could lose over $18 million to scams in 2025 alone – surpassing the total loss from all thefts in 2015, which was $11.3 million. Many, perhaps someone you know, have lost their entire savings and even their homes to fraud.
Unlike traditional thieves, scammers don’t need to sneak around in the dark. Instead of pry bars, they use emails, texts, and phone calls to “break in.” They use deceptive tactics to trick you into giving up personal information or financial access. These tactics typically involve these Ps:
-Pretend: They claim to be from a familiar organization: the IRS, Social Security Administration, sheriff’s office, or a well-known company. They can even “spoof” phone numbers so it appears legitimate on your caller ID. Fact: The IRS, Social Security, police, and utility companies will not call you unexpectedly. If it’s important, they will leave a message. Government agencies communicate almost exclusively through the U.S. mail. As a retired deputy, I know they don’t call or send a letter. If you have a warrant, the police will come knocking at your door.
-Problem or Prize: They say there’s a problem with your account or claim you’ve won a prize or lottery. Reminder: Never provide personal info over the phone. And remember—if you didn’t enter a lottery, you didn’t win one.
-Pressure: They push you to act quickly, threatening arrest, lawsuits, or fines if you don’t comply immediately. Tip: Hang up. Legitimate agencies don’t threaten you over the phone.
-Payment: They demand payment in unusual ways: cryptocurrency, gift cards, and wire transfers. Warning: No legitimate agency or business accepts payment like this.
Scammers rely on fear, urgency, and manipulation. Their methods continue to evolve, and no one is immune. To combat this growing threat, the State Attorney’s Office has published a helpful Elder Fraud Resource Guide > https://www.sao5.org/wp-content/uploads/2025/06/Marion-Elder-Fraud-Resource-Guide-2025.pdf
I’ll be covering more types of scams in future columns. But for now, remember this: The best defense against fraud is you.
Learn the warning signs. Be skeptical. And always think twice before acting.
Stay safe, stay informed, and don’t answer the phone or open any suspicious emails.
