Sheriff warns of ‘catfishing’ after armed robberies

COLUMBIA, S.C. (WOLO) — Richland County Sheriff Leon Lott is urging citizens to be mindful when using popular dating sites. Sheriff Lott is warning citizens of the potential dangers when using social media dating sites such at Tinder, POF (Plenty of Fish), and others for safety reasons. Lott stated that the Richland County Sheriff‘s Department is investigating several incidents of “catfishing” associated with strong armed robberies. The Sheriff stated that catfishing is when internet predators fabricate themselves online using fake identities, for the purpose of tricking people into relationships, financial scams, robberies, and sexual assaults. Sheriff Leon Lott asks that you use caution when you use any dating website or apps. The Sheriff offers the following tips: -Do not give out your personal information -Do not meet anyone outside of a public location, make sure that there are plenty of people around -Take your time when you talk about yourself, do not give out your life-story the first time you chat – plenty of time for that later -Tell a friend, better yet if and when you feel comfortable enough to meet, take a friend with you -Never leave your drink unattended -Keep your purse, wallet, phone, and personal items with you -Watch the photo‘s that you post that may have revealing information in them; location, school, neighborhood -Check your privacy settings on ALL of your social media platforms -Consider having a private account for family and friends -Be careful when accessing your account from a public or shared computer -Be wary of opening up email attachments from someone you have only just met -Ensure that you keep your internet security software up to date -Money requests are a red light -Report unacceptable or suspicious behavior Sheriff Leon Lott is asking that if you or someone you know may have been a victim to please come forward. Call, email or text anonymous tips to 1-888-CRIME-SC or www.crimestoppers.com