Sullivan County Sheriff’s Office Issues Urgent Scam Warning
URGENT UPDATE: The Sullivan County Sheriff’s Office has issued a critical warning to residents about a significant increase in phone and internet scams following a surge in reports. Authorities are urging immediate caution after numerous victims have been targeted.
In a recent social media post, the sheriff’s office revealed that scammers are now asking individuals to deposit money into bitcoin machines or purchase gift cards as part of their fraudulent schemes. “Any call that requests someone to go and deposit money in a bitcoin device or to purchase gift cards can most likely be immediately ruled as a scam,” the post clearly states.
This alarming trend is particularly concerning for vulnerable populations, especially older adults who are frequently targeted. The sheriff’s office emphasizes the importance of discussing these threats with family members and reminds them that it’s perfectly acceptable to hang up and contact the organization the caller claims to represent directly.
The sheriff’s office also reported a resurgence of a notorious phone scam where impersonators pose as law enforcement officials, claiming that the victim has missed jury duty or failed to appear in court. “We will not call anyone regarding these types of matters,” the post reassured. Individuals should be especially wary of calls from the number 423-418-7547, although scammers may use various numbers.
Officials are encouraging residents to remain vigilant and to report any suspicious calls to the Sullivan County Sheriff’s Office. They advise against sharing any personal or financial information over the phone, regardless of the situation.
The sheriff’s warning is a reminder of the increasing sophistication of scams that prey on unsuspecting individuals. As these fraudulent practices become more prevalent, it is essential for community members to remain informed and proactive in protecting themselves and their loved ones.
For continuous updates, residents can follow the Sullivan County Sheriff’s Office on social media or contact them directly with any concerns about potential scams.
