Pennsylvania Attorney General Dave Sunday is warning residents about an increase in government imposter scams involving callers posing as county sheriff’s deputies.
The scammers use spoofed phone numbers to make the calls appear legitimate. They may claim there’s a warrant for the victim’s arrest because of missed jury duty or a court hearing, then demand immediate payment for bail or a bond.
Officials say legitimate law enforcement agencies and courts will never demand payment over the phone, especially through gift cards, Bitcoin or cryptocurrency.
Anyone receiving one of these calls should hang up and independently contact their local sheriff’s office. Suspicious calls can also be reported to the Attorney General’s Office at 1-800-441-2555.
