Social Media Alert: Fake ‘Missing Officer’ Posts Circulating

Indiana State Police (ISP) are urging residents in the Bloomington area to exercise caution regarding a deceptive Facebook post. The post falsely claims that a police officer is missing, triggering concerns among local residents.

The ISP issued a statement on it’s official Facebook page, clarifying that the individual depicted in the fraudulent post is indeed a real person, but is neither missing nor connected to the Bloomington Police Department.

BE AWARE and ALERT!! A Facebook scam is circulating regarding a missing Bloomington Police Officer. THIS IS A SCAM, and your social media personal data can be at risk.

Indiana State Police Bloomington District

Modus Operandi: How the Scam Works

Authorities have indicated that the image used in the scam has appeared in multiple misleading posts across Facebook. Each iteration identifies the same individual as an officer from various police departments, creating confusion and anxiety among social media users.

The ISP is strongly advising Hoosiers to refrain from interacting with or sharing the post. Engaging with such content could possibly compromise personal data, making users vulnerable to identity theft and other online scams [[3]].

Protecting Yourself: Tips for Staying Safe Online

To help residents stay safe online, the Indiana State Police recommend the following precautions:

• Verify Claims: Always confirm missing person claims through official police departments or reputable news outlets.
• Avoid Sharing Unverified Posts: Refrain from sharing posts that lack credible source information.
• report Suspicious Activity: Immediately report any suspicious posts to Facebook.

Taking Action: Reporting Scams and Staying Informed

While officials have not yet identified the individuals behind the scam,they are encouraging the public to report any suspicious activity directly to Facebook. Remaining vigilant and cautious when encountering unverified claims on social media is crucial for protecting personal information.

Remember, police impersonation is a common tactic used by fraudsters to extract financial details and personal information [[1]]. Always be skeptical of unsolicited requests for information, especially those involving money or personal data.

FAQ: Facebook Scam Alert

What is the scam?

A fake Facebook post claiming a police officer is missing.

Who is the missing officer?

The person in the post is real but not missing and not affiliated with Bloomington Police.

What should I do if I see the post?

Do not engage with or share the post. Report it to facebook immediately.

How can I protect my data?

Verify claims, avoid sharing unverified posts, and report suspicious activity.