Beware of Scams
The rash of recent “Phone Scams” in our area has gotten a little more sophisticated in their presentations. Scammers are now using software that show the Chatham County Sheriff’s Office main number (912-652-7600) show up on caller ID.
These scams come across either telling the intended victim they have missed jury duty and must pay a fine or falsely representing an IRS agent trying to collect back taxes. When victims dial the number that shows on their caller ID they reach the Sheriff’s Office main line.
Please be aware that the Chatham County Sheriff’s Office DOES NOT CONTACT ANYONE BY PHONE directing them to put money on an account or take cash to pay any fines.
In the past, investigations have found that a number of these scams have originated from inmates in the State of Georgia prison system. Phone numbers on Caller ID cannot be traced due to being contraband in the State Prison System.
If anyone feels that they have been a victim of this scam or have any information they should contact CCSO Investigative Unit 912-652-7681.
You should always be skeptical of any unsolicited telemarketing phone solicitation.
WAIT...THERE'S MORE...YET ANOTHER SCAM!
Beware of Another Scam
Phone scammers never give up in their quest rob unsuspecting victims. Along with the jury scam and IRS scam people need to be aware of a new scam that pits family members against one another.
This scam involves a phone call telling a family member that another family member has been kidnapped and a ransom has to be paid via a prepaid debit/green dot card. The scammers have obviously researched the intended victim, probably from online directory services, and use the first names of family members to make the call sound legitimate.
The Sheriff’s Office is also aware that the caller ID number being used is 912-652-7600, the Sheriff’s Office main number. Please be aware that the Chatham County Sheriff’s Office DOES NOT CONTACT ANYONE BY PHONE directing them to put money on an account or take cash to pay fines or for any financial transaction.
Please be aware of this scam and never conduct a financial transaction over the phone with a prepaid debit card. Should you receive one of these calls please contact the Chatham County Sheriff’s Office Investigative Unit at 912-652-7681.
You should always be skeptical of any unsolicited telemarketing phone solicitation.