A Message From Sheriff Bob Gualtieri

Florida is one of the top states for elder fraud complaints with more than $700 million in losses last year. It’s happening here in Pinellas County, too. Victims have lost millions to scammers pretending to be a family member in trouble, a government agency, a representative from their bank, and much more. Unfortunately, most of these criminals operate from outside of Pinellas County – and even outside the U.S – making them hard to identify and prosecute.

At the Pinellas County Sheriff’s Office, we investigate scams every day, but our goal is to prevent you from being a victim in the first place. Scammers rely on creating a sense of urgency, fear, and confusion to pressure you into acting quickly. Taking a moment to slow down, verify information, and speak with someone you trust can protect you and your money.

Take time to review these safety tips. Staying informed is the best way to protect yourself, your family, and your financial future.

Sincerely,

Sheriff Bob Gualtieri
Pinellas County, Florida