By: Arthur Ingram
Crime used to have a sound: the crash of a broken window, the wail of a car alarm, or a neighbor’s urgent shout. But in Lee County, the menace has grown quieter. Today’s threats arrive in subtle forms—an innocent-looking email, a casual text, or even the unexpected chime of your phone. While declining rates of violent crime signal progress, a new wave of deception thrives in the digital shadows, reshaping how we think about safety and security.
A Surge in Scams and Schemes
Lee County residents have found themselves increasingly vulnerable to a non-violent threat: scams. Scam calls, emails, and messages, and even fraudulent mail have taken center stage in this crime evolution.
Consider so-called “phishing” emails. Phishing, a tactic involving fraudulent messages impersonating others that trick recipients into revealing sensitive information, was virtually unheard of in Florida twenty years ago. Now, the Federal Trade Commission (FTC) reported more than 34,000 fraud complaints from Florida residents in the first three quarters of 2024 (https://public.tableau.com/app/profile/federal.trade.commission/viz/FraudReports/FraudFacts). The most common bait? Impersonating trusted institutions like banks, online retailers, and government entities.
Telemarketing scams are another concern. Scam callers have evolved from simple, clumsy cons to sophisticated operations targeting seniors and younger residents alike. A recurring favorite involves impersonators claiming to represent Medicare. In Lee County, where around 29% of the population is over 65 (www.census.gov/quickfacts/fact/table/leecountyflorida/PST045223), scammers find an especially receptive audience. These calls often promise fake ‘upgrades’ to Medicare coverage—requiring only a quick confirmation of your social security number.
One of the most pervasive scams affecting residents is the IRS Impersonation Scam. It starts with a stern cold call from someone claiming to be an IRS agent, demanding immediate payment of back taxes. The caller often threatens legal action, attempting to scare the victim into compliance. This scam has cost thousands of Americans millions over the years (www.idwatchdog.com/irs-phishing-and-impersonation-scams).
The Grandparent Scam is another cruel trick, preying on the elderly by posing as a grandchild or other family member in urgent trouble—perhaps arrested or stranded—and in desperate need of money. The scammers rely on emotional manipulation, hoping that the targeted grandparent will act before verifying the details. This scam has unfortunately succeeded in many cases, draining both finances and emotional reserves.
The Sweepstakes Scam has also seen a worrying uptick in recent years. Victims receive letters, phone calls, or emails claiming they have won a large sum of money—but to claim their prize, they must first pay a “processing fee” or provide personal information. Despite its age, this scam still catches people off guard, especially those who might be struggling financially or are simply caught up in the excitement of an unexpected windfall.
Instant messaging apps are another avenue scammers exploit. A common tactic involves sending messages that appear to be misdirected—perhaps a friendly “Hey, are we still meeting later?” or “I think this is the beach photo you asked for.” When the unsuspecting recipient responds, the scammer starts friendly conversation. They often attempt to build rapport before soliciting personal information or money, or directing the victim to malicious online links. These schemes capitalize on our natural inclination to be helpful and polite.
And, finally, let’s not overlook regular mail scams. Residents have increasingly reported receiving fraudulent letters—official-looking ones that might claim a prize won, or an urgent bill unpaid. An example might involve letters imitating utility companies, threatening to cut off services unless a supposed overdue balance is paid immediately. These scams prey on people’s reliance on essential services, creating a sense of urgency that compels swift action. Such campaigns can find many victims and persist for months before authorities catch wind.
Local Color, Global Reach
What’s important to recognize is that these scams do not emerge in a vacuum. Florida is a state marked by its large population of retirees, its thriving tourism, and its rapid growth. These dynamics make it fertile ground for scammers looking for vulnerable groups or transient individuals who might be easier to deceive.
Lee County has also been shaped by these factors. The post-Hurricane Ian recovery brought renewed attention to fraudulent contractors. “Storm chasers,” as these fraudulent contractors are often called, move in swiftly after a disaster, offering repair services they never intend to complete.
How Can Residents Stay Safe?
The new criminal landscape asks us all to adapt—not with fear, but with knowledge. Here are some key precautions:
Verify Before You Trust: Whether it’s an email from your bank, a call from Medicare, or a letter from the IRS—verify the source. Look up official contact numbers, and never use the contact information provided by the suspicious communication itself.
Stay Skeptical of Unsolicited Offers: If you didn’t sign up for a lottery, you probably didn’t win it. Common scams often involve ‘free prizes,’ ‘exclusive deals,’ or demands for immediate action under the guise of a crisis.
Use Technology Wisely: Many phones now have features that can detect and block potential scam calls. Take advantage of these, and also add your number to the National Do Not Call Registry.
Talk About It: Especially among older residents, there can be a reluctance to admit to being scammed—which prevents others from learning about the danger. Discuss suspicious incidents openly with family, friends, and neighbors. What you share could help protect someone else.
A Changing Yet Manageable Landscape
While the nature of crime in Lee County is changing, so too is our community’s capacity to adapt. With many residents enjoying their retirement years, there’s a wealth of time and experience available to observe events and assist neighbors. Retirees can play a pivotal role in staying alert to suspicious activities and sharing information about potential scams.
Simple actions—like discussing recent scam attempts over a morning coffee, sharing a newspaper article advising precautions, or checking in on a neighbor’s changing behavior—can make a big difference. Our collective vigilance, strengthened by the strong connections within our community, empowers us to face these new challenges together.
As we move forward, let’s remember that while crime may evolve, the spirit of Lee County remains steadfast. By looking out for one another and adapting to the times, we can make sure our community continues to be a safe and welcoming place for all who call it home.
Arthur Ingram is a pseudonym representing artificial intelligence algorithms and human writers working together in SW Florida. Trey English provided prompting, editing, and fact-checking for this algorithm-written article.
