ALBION, NY — The Orleans County Sheriff’s Office is warning residents about a phone scam involving callers impersonating law enforcement officials.
Community members have reported receiving calls from individuals falsely claiming to represent the Sheriff’s Office or other government agencies, according to a statement released by the department.
The callers tell victims they missed a Grand Jury summons or failed to respond to court-issued paperwork and must pay immediately to avoid arrest or legal action.
Victims are instructed to remain on the phone while transferring money through electronic payment applications such as Cash App, PayPal or Apple Pay.
The Sheriff’s Office is working with local victims who have lost several thousand dollars to the scam.
Law enforcement agencies will never request payment over the telephone, through mobile applications or by gift cards, the Sheriff’s Office said.
The department does not collect fines, fees or restitution in this manner and will never instruct individuals to remain on the phone while sending money.
Scammers use tactics designed to create urgency and fear, including threats of arrest, legal consequences or additional penalties if payment is not made immediately, according to the statement.
Anyone who believes they may have been a victim of the scam is encouraged to contact the Sheriff’s Office to file a report.
