Bastrop County Sheriff Warns of Credit Card Fraud at Local Hardware Stores

Bastrop County has become the latest scene of a series of financial frauds, as reported by the County’s Sheriff’s Office. According to statements released online, multiple reports have been filed by victims, predominantly those living outside the county, concerning unauthorized use of their debit and credit cards at local hardware stores. These stores deal with materials such as steel and flooring, which have been at the center of fraudulent transactions. In a

statement obtained by CBS Austin

, it was revealed that employees have been accepting over-the-phone payments and requesting copies of customer IDs, which turned out to be fake in these fraudulent practices.

In response to this scam, the Bastrop County Sheriff’s Office is advising against over-the-phone payments for large purchases, a method that has been exploited by the perpetrators. The individuals committing these frauds have been furnishing fraudulent IDs to make large purchases, utilizing stolen financial information.

The Sheriff’s Office, as per a post on Facebook

, noted an urgent need to switch to in-person verification of payments to prevent such instances. However, these recommendations after some local citizens already fell prey to these deceptive acts.

As the investigation continues, local businesses are being encouraged to implement additional security measures. BCSO highlighted the importance of verifying payments in person as a deterrent to potential fraud. Conveying a sense of urgency to local business owners, the Sheriff’s Office hopes to put an end to this damaging trend. A local investigator, Mark Garcia, has been appointed as a contact point for anyone seeking more information or looking to report suspicious activities. For support, concerned individuals are invited to reach out to Investigator Garcia at 512-549-5086, as reported by

FOX 7 Austin

.

The Sheriff’s Office exemplifies the battle between law enforcement and the criminals who always seem to be a step ahead in the technological realm, having advised the community on taking protective measures. Anyone suspecting a transaction might be fraudulent or requiring more information can contact the Bastrop County Sheriff’s Office for assistance.

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