The Carson City Sheriff’s Office advised Monday there is a new wave of phone fraud targeting locals where scammers are impersonating law enforcement officers.
There has been a recent uptick of these scammers calling local residents, posing as officers or deputies from the Carson City Sheriff’s Office, in order to extort money and get personal information. The scammers are saying they are deputies, sergeants or captains and providing the real names of officers.
How the Scam Works:
Scammers use spoofed phone numbers to make it appear as though the call is coming from the Carson City Sheriff’s Office. During the call, the scammer may claim the individual has an outstanding warrant, unpaid fines or is under investigation. They often pressure the victim to make immediate payments via gift cards, wire transfers or cryptocurrency to avoid arrest.
Important Facts to Know:
• The Carson City Sheriff’s Office and other area law enforcement agencies will never ask for payment of fines, warrants or fees over the phone or through apps.
• If you receive such a call, do not provide any personal or financial information.
• Law enforcement will never demand payment via gift cards, wire transfers or cryptocurrency.
• If you are unsure whether a call is legitimate, hang up and contact the Sheriff’s Office directly using official phone numbers.
If you believe you have fallen victim to a scam or need further information, please contact the Carson City Sheriff’s Office, Investigations Division at 775-887-2020.
