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Dear OPC Family,
Someone is sending fake emails impersonating Pastor Lawrence Bartel. The sender uses Lawrence’s name from a fraudulent email address, initially asking “if you might have a few moments for a brief conversation.” This is a common scam designed to eventually ask for money, digital transfers, or gift cards.
At this point, we are only aware of the sender posing at Pastor Lawrence. However, be alert if any suspicious emails may also claim to be from Pastor Marc or any of our church staff.
Please protect yourself with these steps:
- Do not respond: Delete any unexpected or unusual messages. Do not reply or click any links.
- Know OPC’s policy: Pastor Lawrence and the church staff will never contact you individually via email or text to request emergency financial assistance or gift cards.
- Verify directly: If you are ever unsure, call the church office directly at 513-523-6364.
Churches, universities and many other organizations have been subject to recent phishing attacks. To learn more about phishing from Miami University, please click here as well as this resource about staying safe online.
Sadly, sometimes fraudulent email will try to use religious terms or identifiers to convince you that they're trustworthy. Trust your instincts. Just because the message uses religious language doesn't mean that it's legitimate.
Again, if you have questions or if you’ve already received a message, please call our office at 513-523-6364.
Thank you for your care and vigilance in keeping our community of faith safe for all.
Gratefully,
Pastor Lawrence and your church staff
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