Kentucky Sheriff’s Office Warns of Scammers Pretending to Be Deputies in Phone Scheme
SHELBY COUNTY, KENTUCKY — The Shelby County Sheriff’s Office is warning residents to be on high alert after reports surfaced of phone scammers impersonating deputies and demanding money from unsuspecting victims.
In a Facebook post on Saturday, officials said that scammers are “once again” spoofing both the sheriff’s office and dispatch phone numbers, making the calls appear legitimate on caller ID.
Scammers Using Spoofing to Target Residents
Authorities said the fraudsters are posing as sheriff’s deputies, using fake names and official-sounding titles to pressure people into sending money or revealing personal information.
“Spoofing” is a cybercrime technique that disguises a scammer’s true identity by faking a trusted phone number or email address. In this case, the scammers are mimicking official sheriff’s office numbers to make their calls appear authentic.
“The Sheriff’s Office will never call you to request or demand money,” the department emphasized.
Public Urged Not to Share Personal or Financial Details
The sheriff’s office urged residents to hang up immediately if they receive a suspicious call and avoid giving out any personal or payment information.
Officials also warned the public not to verify information or follow any payment instructions over the phone, noting that legitimate law enforcement agencies do not collect fines or fees through phone calls.
Residents who believe they have been targeted or scammed are encouraged to report the call to the Shelby County Sheriff’s Office directly.
Authorities Renew Scam Awareness Efforts
The department said this scam has resurfaced multiple times in recent years, often spiking around major holidays or tax seasons when residents are more likely to respond to official-looking communications.
Law enforcement agencies across Kentucky have joined in reminding citizens to stay vigilant and question any unexpected phone calls requesting money or personal data.
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