Scams Thrive on Panic--Stay Calm and Verify

Sheriff Scott Hammonds would like to inform the public of an increase in phone fraud scams.

Scammers pretend to be law enforcement, banks, government agencies, delivery services, or even your own family members. including children.

More recent calls contain dialogue that appears to be the callers child stating the alleged child was involved in a wreck. The context behind the call stated they needed $14,000 to avoid jail time. Another call appeared to be the voice of a grandparent asking for $7,000-$8,000 immediately. These callers often claim there is an emergency and pressure you to act immediately. Scammers have transformed alternative ways to utilize AI to replicate family members voice using short audio clips.

Protect yourself:

• Never share PINs, passwords, or one-time verification codes

• Caller ID and voices can be spoofed

• Hang up and verify by contacting family members or agencies directly

• Do not send money, gift cards, or cryptocurrency

If you believe you’ve been targeted, report it immediately.

Please share to help protect our community.

— Sheriff Scott Hammonds