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New Decade, same old SCAMS!
Several people throughout SE Texas have reported that they have received a phone call from a Jefferson County Sheriff’s Deputy claiming that they have a warrant for their arrest.
The SCAMMER is using a spoof app that makes the call look like it is actually coming from the Jefferson County Sheriff’s Office. The SCAMMER tells the victim that they can purchase a cash card and to call them back to give the card number over the phone therefore, paying the fine and having the warrant dismissed. This scam is occurring across the United States.
DO NOT fall for this SCAM! No law enforcement agency will call to advise you of a warrant and then take your credit card information over the phone to “pay it off”. Please note the phone number that you receive and block it from your phone.
There are spoof apps out there that the criminal can use to make the phone number appear as a local number. These numbers are not traceable.
To avoid becoming the victim of a scam, always be suspicious of unsolicited phone calls, never give money or personal information to someone with whom you don't have ties and did not initiate contact, and trust your instincts: if an unknown caller makes you uncomfortable or says things that don't sound right, hang up.
If you ever question the authenticity of a Jefferson County Deputy, call 409-835-8411.
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1/3/2020 1:20 PM
Crystal Holmes, PIO
cholmes@co.jefferson.tx.us