Scam Alert: Phone Impersonators Targeting Los Angeles County Residents
The Los Angeles County Sheriff's Department is alerting the public about a surge in phone call scams where scammers pose as county deputies using sophisticated spoofing apps to display their number as the Sheriff's office or local police agencies on caller IDs. Residents are reporting receiving calls from scammers claiming to be high-ranking officials from the Sheriff's office, demanding payment for missing grand jury duty subpoenas. The scammers then threaten the victims with arrest if payment is not made electronically.
Beware of Impersonators: How to Protect Yourself
The Los Angeles County Sheriff's Department is providing tips to help residents avoid falling victim to these scam callers:
Verify the Identity: If you receive a suspicious call, text, or email, it's important to independently verify the identity of the contact. Use official agency websites, online search engines, or phone directories to confirm the person's legitimacy. Do not rely on the contact information provided by the caller.
Don't Give in to Pressure: Don't feel pressured by the threatening caller until you have verified their identity and story. Ask for their name, employee identification number, callback number, and a reference number for the matter they are calling about. This information can be used to contact the organization directly to validate their request.
Hang Up If Necessary: If you suspect a call to be a scam, it's perfectly acceptable to hang up. Trust your instincts and don't engage further with the caller.
- Watch Out for Red Flags: Keep in mind that the Los Angeles Sheriff's Department or any government agency will never ask for payment over the phone or request banking information. Financial transactions are typically handled in person at designated courthouses and custody facilities. Be cautious and never send money or provide personal information to unknown or untrusted individuals.
Remain Informed and Safe
To stay updated on the latest crime trends and safety tips, follow the social media pages of the Los Angeles County Sheriff's Department Headquarters and your local patrol station. These platforms provide valuable information to help you stay informed and protect yourself against scams and other criminal activities.
Report any Incidents
If you believe you have been a victim of these scams, it is crucial to promptly report the incident to your local law enforcement agencies. Together, we can work towards a safer community by staying vigilant and taking action against these fraudulent individuals. Stay safe and protect yourself from falling prey to scam callers.
Analyst comment
Neutral news.
As an analyst, the market impact of this news is likely to be minimal. However, individuals may become more cautious and vigilant, which could lead to a decrease in fraudulent activities in the short term.
