From the desk of Sheriff Bryson Meyers:
Sheriff Meyers would like to remind residents of common scams that typically occur in our area. Some of the common scams include:
1. Tech Support Scam – A pop-up or caller claims the victim’s computer has a virus. They request remote access or payment for fake repairs.
2. Grandparent Scam – A caller pretends to be a grandchild in distress, urgently needing money for bail, medical bills, or travel. They often beg the victim not to tell anyone.
3. Government Impersonation Scam – Scammers pose as IRS, Social Security, or Medicare officials, claiming the victim owes money or must verify personal information.
4. Romance Scam – Fraudsters build online relationships with seniors, then fabricate emergencies to request money.
5. Investment Fraud – Scammers pitch fake investment opportunities, often promising high returns with little risk.
6. AI-Powered Voice Cloning – The use of artificial intelligence to mimic a loved one’s voice, making pleas for help sound convincingly real.
7. Jury Duty Scam – Scammers falsely claim you missed jury duty and now face arrest—using urgency and intimidation to pressure you into acting.
8. Posing as Law Enforcement: Scammers claim to be deputies, telling the person they need to pay a fine or face arrest. Residents should be aware that deputies will not call asking for payments.
Residents are reminded: Never send money or provide personal information to unknown individuals over the phone or online. Do not respond to unsolicited pop-up messages or phone calls claiming your computer or bank accounts are compromised, and never withdraw or transfer money based on instructions from an unknown caller. Requests for payment in the form of Bitcoin, Green Dot cards, or other prepaid cards are also indicators of a scam.