'Impersonation Scams by Fake Fire Officials Worsen'... Gyeonggi Fire Authorities Uncover 12 Recent Cases

The Gyeonggi Provincial Fire and Disaster Headquarters has issued a warning regarding a series of recent scams in which individuals impersonate fire officials to gain access to lodging businesses and factory facilities, coercing them into purchasing fire safety equipment.

According to the headquarters on March 2, there have been 12 confirmed scam attempts within the province recently. In particular, these scams have become more sophisticated, with perpetrators using artificial intelligence (AI) technology to mimic official document formats and to fabricate identification materials with greater precision.

The fraudsters approach businesses by sending fake fire official ID cards and forged documents via text message or email to build trust, then demand the purchase of fire safety equipment such as fire blankets, portable fire extinguishing devices, and fire extinguishers.

In some cases, the scammers have made threatening statements, insisting that "related laws have been revised," and demanding immediate purchases and mandatory installation of the equipment.

Fake official ID cards, false text messages, and forged business cards impersonating fire department officials recently uncovered by the Gyeonggi-do Fire and Disaster Headquarters

The Gyeonggi Provincial Fire and Disaster Headquarters clarifies that the fire authorities never contact individual businesses to sell fire safety equipment or designate specific suppliers for mandatory purchases.

The headquarters has reported the individuals involved in counterfeiting fire official ID cards and official documents to the relevant investigative authorities on charges of forgery and use of official documents, as well as attempted fraud.

Choi Yongcheol, Acting Chief of the Gyeonggi Provincial Fire and Disaster Headquarters, stated, "Crimes impersonating fire authorities are serious offenses that exploit the trust placed in public institutions responsible for residents' safety. If anyone solicits you to purchase fire safety equipment in the name of the fire department, it is 100% a scam. Please report such cases immediately to 112 or your local fire station."

This content was produced with the assistance of AI translation services.