⚠️ Scam Alert: Imposter Text Messages Using Pastor's Name in Circulation

Community members across the region are being targeted by text message scams impersonating local church leadership. First Baptist Church in Dunlap is alerting residents to ignore and block suspicious messages claiming to come from church officials.

🚨 What to Know About the Scam

Fraudsters are sending text messages posing as Pastor Josh Coffman, requesting urgent and discreet responses. The messages mimic the tone and style of legitimate pastoral communication to build trust before making requests. Church leadership has confirmed that Pastor Josh would not initiate contact this way and urges anyone receiving similar messages to treat them as fraud. 🛑

💡 How to Protect Yourself

If you receive a text message like the one circulating, follow these steps:

• Do not respond to the message or engage with the sender
• Block the number immediately to prevent further contact
• Report it as spam through your phone’s messaging app
• Verify directly with the church using known contact information if you have any doubt about a request

📞 Legitimate Contact Information

For genuine church communications, residents can reach First Baptist Church in Dunlap directly at (423) 949-2441 or visit their website. The church encourages members and community members to use these verified channels for any official inquiries. ✝️

❤️ Why This Matters Locally

Impersonation scams targeting faith leaders exploit the trust and goodwill that churches build within their communities. By alerting residents early, First Baptist Church in Dunlap is helping protect neighbors from financial loss and emotional manipulation. Sharing this warning with friends and family-especially older adults who may be more vulnerable to such schemes-strengthens community resilience against fraud.