Springfield police warn businesses of con artists asking for fire extinguisher picture

SPRINGFIELD, Mass. (WWLP) – Police are urging businesses to educate employees about a recent scheme demanding money after a request for a picture of the fire extinguisher.

According to the Springfield Police Department, con artists are calling business employees to impersonate a manager or owner and demanding immediate cash deposits into Bitcoin machines or via gift cards. The caller says there is an issue with the fire department and instructs the employee to take a photo of the fire extinguisher and text it to them.

Once the con artist receives the text, they begin sending text messages impersonating the business manager/supervisor/owner urging payment.

Authorities are advising businesses to take simple precautions, if they receive a similar call, hang up and contact their supervisor directly or call the fire department to verify any monetary request. The fire department does not accept money from Bitcoin or gift cards.

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