Buyers beware that not all fundraising efforts selling candy are as sweet as they seem, as a spate of scams is leaving a sour taste in the wallets of unsuspecting supporters. The Midlothian Police Department issued a stark warning that the trend of individuals, often young people, pitching candy for a sports fundraiser, could be a front for financial foul play.
According to the Midlothian Police Department, these scammers charm their victims into using credit or debit cards for payment, using a mobile card swiper to authorize the transaction then charging the cost of the candy alongside an extra $500 or more. They’re exploiting trust and technology in a con that's both sophisticated and simple, a single swipe can clear your account.
Moreover, techno-tricksters have been hoodwinking less tech-savvy individuals into making payments through mobile apps like Zelle. They offer to 'help' through the transaction, only to send an additional lofty sum to themselves. These swindlers watch as the trusting victim confirms the transaction, unaware of the digital deception that just emptied their bank accounts.
Midlothian Police Department's message is clear: if it's possible, "PAY CASH," they implore residents, adding that when using a card, "Do it Yourself," and always "Confirm the transaction amount." They urge you never to hand over your phone or "..send money to strangers," and when in doubt about a fundraiser's legitimacy it's wisest to contact the police. Trust, once a staple of community interaction, now seems laced with caution as scammers tarnish age-old acts of goodwill like buying candy to support local sports.
