Fulshear Police Department Warns Residents of Rise in Scams and Fraudulent Attempts

Be Wary of Unsolicited Messages: If you receive unexpected phone calls, emails, or messages from unfamiliar contacts requesting personal information, payment, or offering deals that seem too good to be true—exercise caution. Scammers often impersonate trusted organizations or individuals.

Double-Check Online Shopping Sites: When shopping online, fake websites and phishing scams are common. Before making any purchases: Verify the legitimacy of the website. Look for security features like “https://” in the URL and a padlock symbol. Avoid unfamiliar sites offering deep discounts that seem unrealistic.

Watch Out for Fake Relationships: Be cautious of people you meet online who suddenly want to "get to know you." Scammers often pose as fake boyfriends or girlfriends to build emotional connections and then request money or personal information. If someone you've never met in person asks for financial help or access to your accounts, it’s likely a scam.

Don’t Share Personal Information: Never share personal or financial information, such as Social Security numbers, bank details, or passwords, through email, text, or over the phone—especially if you didn’t initiate the contact.

Beware of Charity Scams: Many scammers pose as charitable organizations. Always verify the charity before donating, especially if you are approached online or over the phone. Use trusted sources like Charity Navigator to ensure your contributions go to legitimate causes.

Avoid Gift Card Scams: Scammers often request payment in the form of gift cards. Legitimate companies or organizations will never ask you to pay with gift cards, so be suspicious of anyone who does.

Monitor Your Bank Accounts: Regularly check your bank statements and accounts for any unusual or unauthorized transactions. Report any discrepancies to your bank immediately.

Use Strong, Unique Passwords: Strengthen your online accounts by using long, complex passwords. Consider using a password manager to generate and store them securely.

Stay Updated on Common Scams: Familiarize yourself with the latest scams circulating, such as fake deliveries, contest winnings, or people pretending to be friends or family in need of help. Awareness is your first line of defense.

Seek Help if You’re Unsure: If you think you’re being scammed, don’t hesitate to ask for help from family or trusted friends. You can also call the Fulshear Police Department for guidance at 281-341-4665. Their staff is happy to help you navigate these situations.