What is financial/fraud crimes?

Fraud and financial crimes are a form of theft/larceny that occurs when a person or entity takes money or property, or uses them in an illicit manner with the intent to gain a benefit from it. These crimes typically involve some form of deceit or the abuse of a position of trust which distinguishes them from common theft or robbery.

How can you prevent being victimized?

  • Look for charges on your credit or debit cards that you do not recognize as your purchases
  • Texts, calls or emails from individuals or companies you do not recognize
  • Contact from strangers on your social media accounts, asking for money
  • Calls, texts, or emails from companies, individuals or even local, State and Federal agencies asking you to pay a balance you owe them, using payment methods such as gift cards, bitcoin, cash or wire transfers
  • Ask for help from a parent or trusted adult. Contact the nearest Miami-Dade Sheriff's Office District Station to you to file a report of the fraud incident as soon as possible
  • Save all communications sent to the victim via text, email or social media. Set your profile on all social media platforms to private or only to your trusted friends
  • Contact the credit bureaus to place a fraud alert on your credit
  • Contact your credit card company and ask them to place a fraud alert on your accounts, and you can be notified by email or text
  • Contact your banking institution(s) and ask them to place a fraud alert on your checking, savings, and debit card accounts, and you can be notified via text or email
  • If you feel you are in danger call 911 immediately

If you are a victim, how can you get help?

  • Check to ensure your safety
  • Know that this is not your fault and that you are not alone
  • Report the crime to law enforcement
  • You can also help by gathering information and resources that can assist you
  • Ask family or friends for assistance
  • Contact your local victim advocate for assistance with resources

It is never the victim's fault. Fraud has nothing to do with what the victim should or should not have done to prevent the crime, it is entirely the fault of the subject(s). If you have been a victim of a scam or fraud, it is important to remember that it was not your fault and you are not alone. Scams or fraud can happen to anyone at any time, regardless of their age or background. Elderly people face difficulties and obstacles in dealing with scams and fraud that other people do not, including a harder time reaching out for help and healing emotionally. Many elderly citizens are victimized by the very people they depend on for their emotional well-being. Scams and fraud can cause emotional injuries, on a victim’s psyche. It can include feelings of depression and isolation, especially on elderly citizens.

What are the social services available?

Do not become a victim of fraud. Protect your hard-earned money by gaining a basic understanding of how scammers work and the common tactics they use. Learning how to invest safely can also assist you in reaching your financial goals and avoid becoming a victim. Review the following scams to learn what to look out for and how to avoid falling prey to scammers.

  • Contact the Florida Department of Financial Services by reaching out to their division of consumer services toll-free helpline at, 1-877-693-5236 or you can also reach out to them via email
  • Visit the Attorney General of Florida’s Consumer Protection webpage to find useful tools and tips to help protect yourself from consumer fraud
  • File a report with the Federal Trade Commission

For further assistance or questions, please contact the MDSO Economic Crimes Bureau-Victim Advocate at 305-471-2752, they are available to all fraud victims. They can offer emotional support and assist the victim in obtaining all the needed services.