Safety & Awareness

Georgia Sheriffs Want You To Be SAFE

“Couple in Georgia found shot to death after responding to Craigslist offer for car”

“Nanny disappeared after responding to Craigslist Job Ad”

“Woman loses $1000 in Scam”

“Online Yard Sale Site Scam for Payment Fraud”

One headline after another plagues the country with fraudulent activity. Some scams result in tampered bank accounts while others have resulted in death.

Many tragic circumstances have affected families from all over and it is haunting to think that some of these horrific events may have been prevented. It is essential for anyone using online bill pay, online sales, answering ads online, or any type of financial transaction to be vigilant in protecting yourself from thieves and scammers. Here are some tips to keep in mind:

  • Never disclose any personal identity information to anyone online.
  • Be skeptical: always use caution and take heed to the saying, “If it seems too good to be true, it probably is.”
  • Make sure you are dealing with a legitimate person and/or business.
  • Be cautious whenever conducting business transactions through online “yard sales” and auction-style websites. Offer to pay with a cashier’s check and notify law enforcement of the impending transaction, meeting locations, and those involved.
  • Always meet in a public, highly-trafficked area such as your local Sheriff’s Office or Police Department parking lot.

If you are concerned about the possibility of a scam or suspicious activity, contact your local Sheriff’s Office. It’s never too late to err on the side of caution.

For more information on common scams targeting the elderly, see this helpful guide.

Crisis Hotlines

  • Georgia Crisis & Access Line – 1-800-715-4225
  • GA Peer2Peer Warm Line – 1-888-945-1414
  • National Suicide Prevention Lifeline – 1-800-273-8255.
  • The Crisis Text Line – Text START to 741-741 about any type of crisis 24/7. 

Georgia Addiction Resources

  • Alcoholics Anonymous in Georgia – Resource for finding in-person and virtual AA meetings throughout the state.
  • Recovery in Georgia – Locally run independent addiction recovery resource that features treatment centers, support meetings, and prevention resources located throughout Georgia.
  • The GARR Network – Georgia-based association of accredited sober living homes throughout the state.
  • The Summit Wellness Group – Actionable steps for finding a high-quality addiction treatment center in Georgia. It also features a host of additional resources for continuing the treatment search.
  • SAMHSA’s Treatment Locator – Directory for finding treatment facilities confidentially and anonymously.

Overdose Prevention

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