Scam calls are on the rise again, as criminals continue targeting locals for their money. Some scammers claim a loved one has been arrested and needs money for a bond, while others falsely tell people they have a warrant for failing to appear for jury duty.
A local bail bonds company recently released information about the scams, warning about the tactics used and the hardship these scams place on families who have been preyed upon.
No bail bond company in Polk County will ask anyone to send money through Bitcoin or gift cards. The sheriff’s office will not call asking for money to post a bond for a loved one. The sheriff’s office will not call demanding money to take care of a warrant. When someone has a warrant, the sheriff’s office generally sends information by mail, explaining how the matter can be addressed. No legitimate government agency will demand payment through Bitcoin, gift cards, or similar methods to settle a legal issue.
Pay close attention to the phone number calling. Some of the latest scam calls have come from New York numbers, while others use technology to clone local phone numbers, so the call appears more legitimate. These scammers may also use the names of local judges, law enforcement officers, or other government officials to make their stories sound convincing.
If you receive one of these calls, get the caller’s name and ask which agency or organization they represent. Tell them you will call the agency back to verify their employment and the information they provided. Hang up, find the agency’s official phone number yourself and call that number directly. The sheriff’s office number is 936-327-6810, then press 0 for dispatch. Verify everything before sending any money. Later, block the scammer’s number, so they cannot continue calling.
If someone claims to be with the sheriff’s office, simply say, “I will meet you at the sheriff’s office,” and hang up. The scams will continue as long as people are tricked into purchasing gift cards, sending Bitcoin, or using payment apps such as Cash App to send money to these criminals.
Verify the information directly with the agency the caller claims to represent. Those who need a bail bond should remember that legitimate bond companies operate in Polk County and have local offices. Go to the office in person and verify the information before making any payment. Do not trust an unexpected call.
