DAVIESS CO. — The Daviess County Sheriff’s Office has released an urgent warning to residents following a recent surge in scam activity targeting community members. Officials report that scammers are utilizing phone calls, emails, and various online messages to exploit victims.
Scammers are employing a variety of sophisticated tactics, including fake prize claims, urgent tech support alerts, suspicious investment schemes, and even the impersonation of law enforcement officers, all aimed at tricking residents into sending money, purchasing gift cards, or revealing sensitive personal information.
Common Scams to Watch For
The Sheriff’s Office highlighted several specific scams currently circulating:
- Fake Law Enforcement Calls: Scammers are impersonating officials from the Sheriff’s Office, falsely accusing victims of missing court appearances and demanding “bond payments.” Authorities stress that legitimate law enforcement will never demand bond payments over the phone.
- Computer Hacking Warnings: Residents may receive fake warnings claiming their computer has been “hacked,” followed by demands for payment to perform non-existent repairs.
- Impersonation Scams: Criminals pose as friends or officials to establish trust with potential victims before requesting financial assistance.
- False Prize Claims: Calls or messages falsely claim victims have won a large prize or lottery money, requiring a fee or personal information to collect the winnings.
The Daviess County Sheriff’s Office reminds residents of key safety rules to protect themselves and their finances:
- Never send money or gift cards to strangers.
- Verify all claims independently—call the organization or official using a phone number you look up yourself, not one provided by the caller.
- Hang up immediately if a call or message sounds suspicious.
- Remember the mantra: If it sounds too good to be true, it probably is.
Residents are urged to warn their friends and loved ones about these pervasive scams and to report any suspected fraudulent activity to local law enforcement immediately.
