Pierce County Sheriff’s Department Issues Crucial Fraud Alert Know the Signs and Protect Yourself.
The Pierce County Sheriff’s Department has issued a clear and important message to the community: We will never ask for money over the phone. With the rise of fraudulent schemes exploiting unsuspecting residents, our deputies want to ensure that everyone knows how to protect themselves from these common but harmful scams.
What You Need to Know
The first and foremost piece of information to remember is this: the Pierce County Sheriff’s Department will never ask you for money in relation to any criminal case, warrant, or jury duty. This includes various forms of payment, such as gift cards, Bitcoin, or any other personal financial transactions. If someone claims to be a deputy and asks for payment over the phone, it is a scam.
Imagine receiving a phone call from someone who claims to represent the Sheriff’s Department. They may threaten you with arrest unless you pay a fine or settle a warrant. Sounds distressing, right? Unfortunately, scammers often use high-pressure tactics to manipulate individuals into providing sensitive information or money. They may keep you on the line, making it seem imperative that you act fast this is their tactic.
Scammers Use Psychological Tricks
These fraudsters are skilled manipulators. They may insist that you cannot hang up the phone, creating a sense of urgency and fear. They want you to act without thinking, robbing you of the time needed to evaluate the situation critically. Many victims report feeling relieved or panicked and succumbing to the pressure without realizing they’ve stepped into a trap.
But it doesn’t have to be this way. Knowing the signs of a scam can save you from becoming another victim.
How to Protect Yourself
- Trust Your Instincts: If something doesn’t feel right, it probably isn’t. Whether it’s an unexpected call or a suspicious email, trust your gut feelings.
- Do Not Engage: If you receive a call demanding money or sensitive information, hang up immediately. Scammers thrive on engagement.
- Verify the Caller: If you’re unsure whether you’re speaking to a legitimate deputy, hang up and call the Pierce County Sheriff’s Department directly at (253) 287-4455. This is the non-emergency number where staff can confirm if any outreach has been made in your name.
- Spread the Word: Share this information with family, friends, and especially those who may be more vulnerable to scams, such as elderly relatives. Awareness is the first line of defense.
- Report Scams: Always report scam calls to local authorities. Your report could help stop these scammers and protect others in the community.
Remember, Your Safety Comes First
In the rare event that law enforcement needs to discuss a warrant, they will not request payment while on the phone. Instead, if you are ever contacted regarding a serious matter, a deputy will very simply instruct you to turn yourself in or provide guidance on how to proceed legally. There is no need for a financial transaction over the phone for any legitimate law enforcement purpose.
In closing, let’s continue to protect our community. The Pierce County Sheriff’s Department is here to serve and protect, but we need your help. Stay informed, stay cautious, and remember: If it sounds too good to be true, or if your gut tells you otherwise, it’s better to be safe than sorry. Don’t fall for the scams; we’ve seen too many lives disrupted by these underhanded tactics.