WAYNE COUNTY, N.C. — The Wayne County Sheriff’s Office is warning residents to be on alert following an increase in reported scams involving callers impersonating law enforcement officers and demanding money to resolve supposed arrest warrants.
According to the Sheriff’s Office, scammers have contacted residents and claimed that an arrest warrant has been issued in the victim’s name. The caller then demands payment to take care of the alleged warrant.
In some cases, victims have been instructed to withdraw large amounts of money from their bank accounts and use the funds to purchase gift cards. Scammers may also tell victims to send money through payment apps.
The Sheriff’s Office says a demand to purchase gift cards to resolve an arrest warrant is a major warning sign of a scam.
Residents are urged to be cautious when receiving unexpected phone calls, text messages or other electronic communications requesting money or personal information.
Anyone receiving a suspicious call should not provide personal or financial information, purchase gift cards or send money. Instead, hang up and contact the Wayne County Sheriff’s Office or another local law enforcement agency directly using a verified telephone number.
Residents who have already sent money or provided financial information should contact their bank or payment provider as soon as possible and report the incident to law enforcement.
The Sheriff’s Office is encouraging residents to share the warning with family members, friends and neighbors who could also be targeted by scammers.
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