The Maui Police Department is warning the public about a phishing scam in which the scammer fraudulently uses information publicly available on the County of Maui Board agendas to try to obtain money from potential victims.
The scammers contact victims by phone, email or text and claim to represent Maui County, an affiliated board or a department, MPD said in a news release today.
The scammers may tell victims they owe fees, fines or other payments related to agenda items or applications, and then instruct the individuals to wire funds or send immediate payment.
The County of Maui does not request payment by wire transfer, cryptocurrency, payment apps, gift cards or similar methods, MPD said in a press release.
MPD reminds the public:
>>Do not provide personal or financial information or send money in response to unsolicited calls, emails, or messages.
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>>Always verify payment requests by contacting the County of Maui or the relevant department directly through official phone numbers or websites.
If you may have shared personal information or sent money as a result of this scam, please report it immediately to the Maui police at 808-244-6400.
MPD encourages the public to stay vigilant and to share this warning with family, friends, and colleagues to help prevent further victimization.