Multiple County Sheriff Offices Warn Against Text Scam Campaigns

Multiple sheriff's offices across the U.S. are warning residents about a surge in phone, text message, and email scams impersonating law enforcement. These scams typically involve callers or texters claiming individuals have missed jury duty, owe fines, or face arrest, demanding immediate payment via gift cards, Bitcoin, or other electronic transfers. Authorities emphasize that legitimate law enforcement agencies will never request payment or sensitive information through these methods or threaten arrest over the phone. The scammers often use spoofing techniques to make calls appear official and include fraudulent links in texts or emails, which recipients are urged not to click. Residents are advised to hang up immediately on suspicious calls, avoid responding to such messages, and verify any claims directly with their local sheriff's office. Officials stress prevention through public awareness as apprehending perpetrators, often operating internationally, remains challenging.