Fraud Alert: Fake Profile Uses Lodi Police Officer's Picture

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Post on Apr 24, 2025

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Fraud Alert: Fake Social Media Profile Uses Lodi Police Officer's Photo to Target Victims

Lodi, CA – A disturbing case of online fraud has emerged, involving the misuse of a Lodi Police Department officer's photograph on a fake social media profile. Authorities are urging residents to remain vigilant and report any suspicious activity after discovering the fraudulent account actively attempting to scam unsuspecting individuals.

The fraudulent profile, discovered earlier this week, uses a photograph of a legitimate Lodi Police Officer, creating a false sense of trust and authority to lure victims. The perpetrators are believed to be using this deception to solicit money or personal information under the guise of an official police matter or a supposed emergency.

How the Scam Works:

Investigators believe the scam operates by contacting individuals through various social media platforms and messaging apps. The perpetrators, posing as the Lodi Police Officer, may fabricate stories requiring urgent financial assistance or claim to be investigating a crime involving the victim. They might ask for gift cards, money transfers via apps like Zelle or Venmo, or banking details under the pretext of an official investigation.

• Urgent Financial Requests: The scammers create a sense of urgency, often using emotionally manipulative tactics to pressure victims into acting quickly.
• Official-Sounding Language: They employ police jargon and official-sounding language to enhance credibility.
• Requests for Personal Information: Victims may be asked to provide sensitive personal information, such as bank account details or social security numbers.

What to Do if You Encounter This Scam:

• Do not respond: Never respond to unsolicited messages requesting money or personal information, especially those claiming to be from law enforcement.
• Report the Profile: Immediately report the fraudulent profile to the social media platform where you encountered it.
• Contact the Lodi Police Department: If you believe you have been a victim of this scam, or if you have encountered a similar fraudulent profile, contact the Lodi Police Department non-emergency line at [Insert Phone Number Here] to report the incident. Provide as much detail as possible, including screenshots and any communication with the fraudulent account.
• Verify Information: Always verify the identity of anyone requesting personal information or financial assistance. Contact official channels, such as the Lodi Police Department's official website or phone number, to confirm their legitimacy.

Staying Safe Online:

This incident serves as a stark reminder of the importance of online safety and awareness. Remember these key tips to protect yourself from online scams:

• Be wary of unsolicited messages: Treat all unexpected online communication with suspicion, especially those requesting personal or financial information.
• Verify the sender's identity: Always double-check the identity of anyone contacting you online, especially those claiming to be from official organizations.
• Never share sensitive information online: Avoid sharing personal information like banking details, social security numbers, or passwords online, unless you are absolutely certain of the recipient's identity and the security of the platform.
• Educate yourself: Stay informed about the latest online scams and fraud techniques by following reputable news sources and cybersecurity websites.

The Lodi Police Department is committed to protecting its community and urges residents to report any suspicious activity. Staying vigilant and informed is crucial in preventing online fraud and protecting yourself from these malicious actors. Remember, the Lodi Police Department will never solicit money or personal information through social media.