There is a scam going round with church members getting text messages, e-mails, or calls from their pastors asking for money for various emergencies.

They may use the pastor’s specific name as well as that of the church.

They will ask for gift cards such as Apple Pay, Amazon, or Green Dot Money Card.

DO NOT SEND ANYONE GIFT CARDS without actually verifying their identity. Churches, government entities, or general businesses would not accept these cards as legitimate payments, especially if they want you to read or send the card number over phone or text.

VERIFY BEFORE YOU COMPLY. This is a scam.