Leander Police warns residents of a phone scam posing as sheriff’s deputies, demanding money via bitcoin. Report suspicious calls to FTC or local police.
Scam Details
The scam involved callers claiming to be sheriff’s deputies and stating that a warrant was out for the victim’s arrest. The fraudsters used a phone number that appeared to be from the sheriff’s department.
The fraudsters spoofed the caller ID to display the sheriff’s department number, creating an illusion of authenticity. This trick made it difficult for victims to immediately recognize the call as fraudulent.
They demanded money and instructed victims to stay on the line while depositing funds into a bitcoin machine. The use of bitcoin was intended to obscure the trail of the transaction.
Police Statement
Leander Police posted on social media: “Some of our citizens have been contacted by someone posing as a sheriff’s deputy who claimed there was a warrant out for their arrest. The scammer spoofed the number to make it look like it was coming from the sheriff’s department. They demanded money and made them stay on the phone while depositing money in a bitcoin machine,”. The department emphasized that law enforcement will never request payment over the phone, with gift cards, or crypto currency. This statement serves as a clear reminder to residents about official procedures.
How to Protect Yourself
If you suspect you have been targeted, do not comply with the caller’s demands. Instead, hang up immediately to avoid further entanglement.
Verify the call by contacting the sheriff’s department directly using a phone number you find on their official website. Doing so allows you to confirm whether any warrant truly exists.
Keep a record of the caller’s number and any messages you receive, as this information can help authorities investigate. Preserving this data is crucial for potential legal action.
Leander Police advises residents to report suspected scams to the Federal Trade Commission or their local police department without delay. Prompt reporting helps authorities track and dismantle fraudulent networks.
Key Takeaways
Key points to remember from the warning include:
- Police will never ask for money via phone, gift cards, or crypto.
- Scammers spoof numbers to appear official.
- Report suspicious calls to the FTC or local police. By staying vigilant and following these guidelines, residents can protect themselves from falling victim to such deceptive schemes. Leander Police remains committed to keeping the community safe from fraud and encourages anyone who has received a suspicious call to reach out for assistance.
Morgan J. Carter is a Texas-based journalist covering breaking news, local government, public safety, and community developments across Austin. With more than six years of reporting experience, Morgan focuses on delivering accurate, clear, and timely stories that reflect the fast-moving pulse of the city.
At newsofaustin.com, Morgan reports on everything from severe weather alerts and traffic updates to city council decisions, crime reports, and the issues shaping daily life in Austin. Known for reliable fact-checking and a strong commitment to public-interest journalism, Morgan brings readers the information they need to stay informed and engaged.
When not tracking a developing story, Morgan enjoys exploring Austin’s neighborhoods, attending local events, and connecting with residents to share the voices and experiences that define the community.
