10/29/2026
Detective Steve Godwin with the Johnston County Sheriff's Office stopped by the library last week to offer a special class to community members called "Necessary Evils: How Not to Become a Victim."
Detective Godwin shared valuable information about how to recognize and avoid scams and frauds, helping us better understand the risks we face in today's digital world. Attendees learned about phone scams, how to protect personal information, and other helpful tips to stay alert, informed, and safe.
A big thank you to Detective Godwin for sharing his knowledge and expertise with our community! We appreciate everyone who joined us for this important and informative program.
Some takeaways from the presentation:
1. Don't trust caller ID (scammers can spoof phone numbers).
2. Don't answer calls from unknown numbers (let it go to voicemail).
3. Never share personal or financial information (especially when its someone who calls unexpectedly).
4. Be suspicious of urgency and threats (for example: missed jury duty, owe taxes, have a warrant).
5. Never pay someone with gift cards (requests for payment by gift card, wire transfer, cryptocurrency, or payment app are major red flags).
6. Hang up and call back using a trusted number (if someone claims to represent your bank, Medicare, the IRS, or law enforcement, end the call. Find an official phone number and call back).
7. Verify emergencies involving family members (contact your family member or another trusted person before sending anything).
8.) Don't trust a familiar voice alone. (Artificial intelligence can imitate someone's voice).
9.) Report suspicious calls. (Reporting scams can help protect others!).
A simple message to remember: Stop. Think. Verify. Stay safe!
