Skimmers, Scammers and Technology

Debbie Snapp
ECB Publishing, Inc.

Sheriff Mac McNeill, with the Jefferson County Sheriff's Office (JCSO), was the guest speaker for a recent monthly meeting of the Triple L (LLL) group. LLL is a ministry sponsored by the Monticello First Baptist Church. The group is open to any and all community seniors and their friends, no matter what church or denomination they are affiliated with.

The regular members, their friends and guests came together early on Tuesday, Feb. 24 in the church fellowship hall for a meeting that began with prayer, followed by the pledge to the American flag and devotion.

Sheriff McNeill was introduced to the group, receiving a warm welcome from all. He spoke to his audience about skimmers and scammers, and how today's technology has become so advanced that the innocent person nowadays has to be more aware of these cheaters and how they operate.

He encourages paying with cash when at the gas pump instead of bank and credit cards.
Sheriff McNeill's other suggestions are to choose a pump up close to the station's window and always check your credit card statements when they come in.

There is a new app out now that can detect a Bluetooth signal and theft at the gas pump...if you are tech-savvy. If you are not tech-wise, pay attention to the pump for damage and signs of tampering.

Scamming is big business for the crooks and gangs, not just in Florida but all over the country, so never give your personal information over the phone or on your Facebook page unless you know for certain who you are communicating with; thieves can monitor your online accounts.

“Be mindful and careful,” adds Sheriff McNeill. “There are a lot of bad people out there.”
If you don't recognize a phone number on your caller ID, don't answer the phone, let the caller leave you a message. If you feel uncomfortable, contact law enforcement with your concerns.

These are just a few scams that Sheriff McNeill touched on before the group began sharing their personal stories of scams calls they received.

He touched on a few more safety tips, including home and car alarms, security and video cameras, social media security, as well as parent involvement when it comes to their child's social media.

At the meeting, Sheriff McNeill also introduced the JCSO's new victim's advocate; her name is Marie Rigdon. She is available to help when called upon. She knows the court system, and has a big heart, shares Sheriff McNeill. She can set up services and will go to court with the victim as the court system can be very confusing. She is here to help victims of crime.

“Don't ever think that your problem is too small for our involvement,” says Sheriff McNeill. “We are here to help you. Call me anytime. My door is always open.”

The LLL group generally meets on the fourth Tuesday of the month at 10:30 a.m. at the church for a program, lunch and fellowship, and guests are invited to bring a side dish to share.