Victim avoids scam before altered property tax check is discovered

STAFFORD, VA — A Stafford County resident avoided falling victim to an impersonation scam after someone posing as an FDIC investigator instructed them to withdraw money, only to later discover a separate property tax check had been altered and cashed.

Deputy Sayegh responded to the fraud report at approximately 2:27 p.m. Sunday, July 20, on Courthouse Road.

According to the Stafford County Sheriff’s Office, the victim was first contacted by their bank about unauthorized charges made in California.

After visiting the bank to discuss the transactions, the victim received a call from someone claiming to represent the Federal Deposit Insurance Corporation, or FDIC.

The caller allegedly claimed to be investigating the victim’s bank and instructed the victim to withdraw money for security reasons.

The victim recognized the scheme and ended communication with the caller before sending any money.

During the same incident, the victim learned a check mailed to pay property taxes never reached its destination. The bank later determined the check had been altered and cashed.

The victim’s bank has launched an investigation. No suspects have been identified.

Anyone with information is asked to contact the Stafford County Sheriff’s Office at (540) 658-4400.

Key Points

• A Stafford County resident recognized and avoided an alleged FDIC impersonation scam.
• The victim also discovered a property tax check had been altered and cashed.
• The bank is investigating, and no suspects have been identified.