AUSTIN (KXAN) -- Bastrop County businesses are being warned of "fraudulent transactions" happening at "local hardware stores, particularly those selling steel, flooring, or other construction materials," the Bastrop County Sheriff's Office said on social media. BCSO said it received several reports from victims who are live outside of the area, who said they caught unauthorized transactions on their debit and credit cards. "In these cases, employees are accepting payments over the phone and requesting a copy of the customer’s driver’s license. The perpetrators are responding by sending images of fraudulent IDs, allowing them to make large purchases with stolen financial information," BCSO said. The agency recommended avoid making large purchases over the phone. Instead, do "in-person payment verification" to ensure an authorized transaction, according to BCSO. If anyone suspects they have have a fraudulent transaction or have any other questions, they can contact BCSO investigator Mark Garcia at 512-549-5086.