Scammers posing as school principals target victims with fake estate sale emails
STAFFORD COUNTY, Va. — Authorities are warning residents about a phishing scam in which suspects are posing as elementary school principals to trick victims into sending money.
The Stafford County Sheriff’s Office said scammers are sending emails that appear to come from principals at Conway Elementary School and Moncure Elementary School.
In the scheme, the suspect references a supposed staff member hosting an estate sale and offers items for purchase. Victims are then asked to place deposits, which are sent directly to the scammer.
Officials said suspects may also follow up using separate fraudulent email addresses to continue the conversation and pressure victims into sending money.
Residents are urged not to respond to suspicious emails and to verify any claims directly with authorities.
Anyone unsure whether a message is legitimate is encouraged to call the Stafford County Sheriff’s Office at 540-658-4450 and ask to speak with a deputy.
Key Points
- Scammers posing as school principals in phishing email scheme
- Victims tricked into sending deposits for fake estate sale items
- Authorities urge public not to respond and to verify suspicious messages