Scams are no longer just a big-city problem. They’re hitting inboxes, text messages, and social feeds right here in Southwest Louisiana—and targeting everyday people, from small business owners to retirees.
Introducing SAFE Net
Scam Awareness & Fraud Education Network
Website: safenetswla.org
Email: support@safenetswla.org
SAFE Net is a newly established nonprofit based in Southwest Louisiana, created to help the public recognize, prevent, and respond to online scams and fraud. Their mission is to stop scams before they start, support victims, and create a safer digital environment for everyone.
- Public education and awareness campaigns
- Victim support and resource guidance
- Community advocacy and outreach
Special thanks to Joshua Tannehil (board member) for bringing this important initiative to our attention. As online scams grow more sophisticated, it’s reassuring to see local efforts pushing back.
What a Scam Actually Looks Like
Fake Amazon Phishing Email
Subject: Your Amazon Order #112-9473834-2024 Has Shipped!
Hello,
Your order of Apple AirPods (2nd Gen) has been shipped.
Order Total: $139.95
Shipping Address: 1122 Maple Ln, Lake Charles, LA
If you did NOT authorize this purchase, click below to cancel:
Cancel Order Now
[Cancel Order and Secure Account]
Thanks for choosing Amazon!
Red Flags:
– You didn’t place an order
– The button/link goes to a non-Amazon site
– Language tries to provoke urgency
Fake Invoice Email (QuickBooks Spoof)
Subject: Payment Overdue – Urgent
Dear Customer,
Invoice #844920 is past due. Please remit payment immediately to avoid service interruption.
Amount Due: $289.73
Payment Method: Bank Transfer or Zelle
Reply to this email for account details.
Thank you,
Accounts Receivable Dept
Intuit Billing Team
Red Flags:
– Generic sender
– Non-verifiable payment methods
– Poses as a familiar brand to gain trust
Impersonation Message from a Friend
Hey, it’s me. I’m locked out of my main account and traveling. Can you help real quick?
I need you to buy a couple of gift cards and send me the codes. I’ll pay you back later today.
Let me know once you get them.
– Sent from iPhone
Red Flags:
– Emotional pressure
– Urgent request for gift cards
– Claiming to be a friend but using odd language
How to Protect Yourself
- Never click unknown links—hover to preview first
- Don’t share personal or financial info via email or text
- Enable two-factor authentication on all major accounts
- Educate family and coworkers regularly
- Use verified contact info—don’t reply directly to sketchy messages
Free Tools to Stay Safe
| Tool | Purpose | Link |
|---|---|---|
| VirusTotal | Scan links or files for malware or phishing | virustotal.com |
| Have I Been Pwned | Check if your email or phone was leaked | haveibeenpwned.com |
| Google Safe Browsing | See if a site is flagged as malicious | Google Safe Browsing |
| FTC Complaint Assistant | Report scams to the Federal Trade Commission | reportfraud.ftc.gov |
| SAFE Net | Local education, support, and advocacy | safenetswla.org |
What To Do If You’re Scammed
- Change your passwords immediately
- Contact your bank or card provider if money was involved
- Keep records—emails, receipts, screenshots
- Report the scam:
– FTC
– Louisiana Attorney General
– SAFE Net
Need Help?
If you’ve got a suspicious email, text, or social message—don’t guess.
Reach out: dalton@swlaphoto.com
I’ll give you a second opinion, free.
Or visit SAFE Net for local guidance and resources tailored to SWLA residents.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is SAFE Net?
SAFE Net (Scam Awareness & Fraud Education Network) is a nonprofit based in Southwest Louisiana. They focus on public education, fraud prevention, support for scam victims, and digital safety awareness across the region.
How do I know if an email is a scam?
Check for:
- Misspelled names or strange grammar
- Suspicious sender email addresses
- Pressure to act fast
- Links that don’t match the sender’s domain
If in doubt, don’t click—use tools like VirusTotal or forward it to someone tech-savvy you trust.
What’s the safest way to report a scam?
Start with the FTC at reportfraud.ftc.gov, then notify your bank if any money changed hands. You can also contact the Louisiana Attorney General’s office or SAFE Net for local guidance.
Can scammers really look like my friends or boss?
Yes. Scammers often spoof or clone real people’s email addresses and social media profiles. They might use your friend’s name to ask for money, gift cards, or account access. Always verify in person or by phone before responding.