HUDSON, NY — The Columbia County Sheriff’s Office is warning residents about a scam targeting family members of incarcerated individuals.
At least one local law enforcement agency has been affected by the scam, which has been reported by sheriff’s offices across the country, according to the sheriff’s office.
Family members of inmates have reported receiving phone calls from individuals claiming to be from the Columbia County Sheriff’s Office, officials said.
The callers state that a loved one can be released from custody if payment is made immediately, according to the sheriff’s office.
Victims are instructed to pay using gift cards, Venmo, Apple Pay or other electronic payment methods, sometimes claiming additional fees for GPS tracking or monitoring, officials said.
Law enforcement agencies will never request bail or fees via gift cards, Venmo, Apple Pay, Zelle or similar services, according to the sheriff’s office.
Agencies will also never demand immediate payment over the phone or ask for payment for GPS tracking or monitoring to release someone from custody, officials said.
Residents who receive such calls should not send money or share personal or financial information, according to the sheriff’s office.
Residents should hang up and contact their local sheriff’s office directly using a verified phone number, officials said.
Anyone who believes they have been targeted or victimized should report it to their local law enforcement agency immediately, according to the sheriff’s office.
