02/18/2026
Something to keep in mind and watch out for. Pastor Hanson won't reach out to people for gift cards, Bitcoin, or money. Stay vigilant so you don't become the victim of a scam.
🚨 Scam Alert: “Pastor/Priest Needs Gift Cards” Texts 🚨
We’ve received reports of convincing text messages claiming to be from a local pastor or priest. The message often says they’re at a hospital and urgently need gift cards to hand out, asking the recipient to buy several cards and text photos of the card numbers, with a promise of reimbursement the next day.
Once the photos are sent, the money is gone.
What makes these texts seem real:
They may use familiar names from the recipient’s church or community.
The message may sound urgent, caring, and believable.
Red flags to watch for:
This is not a typical request from a church leader.
The message may come from an out-of-state phone number.
Any request for gift cards or photos of gift cards is a major warning sign.
If you receive a text like this:
🔻Slow down.
🛑Do not buy gift cards.
❌Do not send photos or codes.
☎️Contact the church directly using a trusted phone number (from the church office, a bulletin, or an official website).
🔕If you’re unsure, it’s okay to reply that you can’t help—or simply ignore the message.
Reminder: Phone numbers can be spoofed, meaning criminals can make a text look like it’s coming from someone you trust. They may also move beyond churches and use other organizations, groups, or businesses.
Tip for churches and organizations: Use caution when publicly posting members’ phone numbers online—scammers may use that information to make messages more convincing.
Please share this post to help others avoid becoming a victim.
