Welcome to “late-stage technology,” in which our dependency on everything digital has unwelcome realities of crowded inboxes, constant notifications, and sophisticated cybercriminals.
Scammers are taking advantage of our distractions and dependence on digital communication by sending “official” emails, texts, and QR codes that appear legitimate and demand quick action – often using fear-based threats to trick people into sending money. Recently, cybercriminals targeted people doing business with the town by using fake logos and documents.
Our technology-filled world is moving faster than our ability to carefully verify every message. Town leaders and staff are asking residents and applicants to pause and verify any digital communications that appears to come from the town or another government agency.
In one recent case, town staff learned of a phishing scam targeting applicants involved in town meetings. A fraudulent email and invoice were sent, requesting payment to keep an item on a meeting agenda. The invoice appeared legitimate, even using the town’s name and address, but it was false.
Unfortunately, this type of scam is becoming more common. Bad actors are increasingly skilled at copying official seals, formatting, and language so their emails appear to be legitimate government correspondence. These scams often rely on urgency or fear – suggesting a permit fee is overdue, a traffic ticket has not been paid, or that someone must report immediately for jury duty.
Because many of our inboxes are crowded, it can be easy to overlook small warning signs. Cybercriminals understand this and take advantage of our dependence on technology and the speed at which we process information.
That is why it is important to pause and verify before responding to any unexpected request for money or personal information.
Residents should remember a few simple rules:
First, government agencies do not deliver official legal notices by text message. If you receive a text demanding payment or threatening legal action, treat it as suspicious.
Second, be cautious of any message requesting immediate payment, particularly through wire transfers or unusual payment methods. The town does not conduct regular business through wire transfers.
Third, verify the sender’s email address carefully. All official Town of Bluffton emails end with the domain @townofbluffton.com. Even a small variation could signal a fraudulent message.
Fourth, if something seems unusual, trust your instincts. Call the staff member directly or contact town hall using the publicly listed phone number. Do not rely on phone numbers included in the suspicious message itself, as scammers often include fraudulent contact information to make their messages appear legitimate.
Finally, be cautious with links and QR codes. Just like malicious email links, QR codes can direct users to dangerous websites designed to steal personal information.
Cybercriminals are constantly adapting their tactics. The best defense is awareness and caution.
If you receive a suspicious message claiming to be from the town or another government agency, first confirm its legitimacy before taking any action. If you send money and later realize the message was a scam, please report it to the police and notify the town so we can help protect others.
Bluffton has always been a community where neighbors look out for one another, and that same spirit applies today when it comes to helping others recognize and avoid digital scams.
