INDIANA – Authorities are issuing a public warning about a new wave of scams in which individuals impersonate local police officers or government employees. These scammers are attempting to defraud residents by claiming their property is subject to a sheriff’s sale due to unpaid debts, or by threatening arrest or fines that demand immediate payment.
According to area Sheriff’s Departments, these callers can be highly convincing. They often use the names of real police officers or deputies and employ software to manipulate caller ID, making it appear as though the call originates from a legitimate police number. Their tactics include threatening legal action or arrest to create a sense of urgency, often directing victims to fraudulent websites for payment.
Officials have recently received reports from individuals who have fallen victim to these imposters.
Authorities emphasize that legitimate law enforcement agencies will never request payments over the phone or online to settle legal matters. Furthermore, they will never ask individuals to purchase gift cards or prepaid debit cards to pay a debt or fine. The public is strongly advised never to provide personal or financial information to unsolicited callers.
If you receive such a call, officials recommend that you hang up immediately. If you have any questions or concerns regarding a suspicious call, residents should contact local authorities directly using a trusted, verified phone number rather than a number provided by the suspicious caller.
