Law enforcement imposter scams on the rise, BBB warns

JACKSON, Tenn. — The Better Business Bureau of the Mid-South has had an increase of reports within the last week of law enforcement scams.

Reports state that the scam involves a Sheriff’s deputy imposter claiming that a loved one will be released from jail if they pay a fee.

One local victim lost $610 from the scam.

Another victim reported the phone number to be the actual number to the Sheriff’s department.

Scammers can use software to generate audio signals that make it seem like there’s an incoming call from the spoofed number.

Scammers may threaten arrest if the consumer fails to comply with their requests, and typically ask for payment to rectify the problem.

To avoid scams, don’t trust your caller ID and don’t call the number back directly. Hang up or ignore the message.

“Always know that law enforcement will never threaten you, especially, or use harsh language, or talk to you crazy when over the phone,” said Toddnetta Trice, communication specialist for BBB Mid-South. “Typically, local law enforcement would never call you, especially if they’re wanting some type of payment.”

If you think there is a possibility you have been contacted by a real law enforcement agent, call the agency directly using a non-emergency number to confirm.

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