Madison County Sheriff’s Office warns public of sophisticated scam
PRESS RELEASE FROM THE MADISON COUNTY SHERIFF'S OFFICE:
MADISON COUNTY, TN – The Madison County Sheriffs Office is warning residents about a new and highly sophisticated scam targeting individuals in Madison County and surrounding areas.
Scammers are impersonating law enforcement and court officials using fraudulent documents, stolen agency logos, spoofed phone numbers, and QR codes to make their scheme appear legitimate.
In a recent incident, a Madison County resident was scammed out of thousands of dollars after receiving phone calls from individuals claiming to be investigators and court officials. The victim was falsely told an arrest warrant had been issued for missing a court date and was pressured to remain on the phone for several hours. During the scam, the victim received fake court documents and was instructed to send money using cryptocurrency via a QR code.
The documents below are actual materials used in the scam and demonstrate how convincing these fraud attempts can appear.
Key Facts the Public Should Know:
Law enforcement will never demand payment over the phone.
Courts and sheriffs offices do not accept bond, fines, or fees via QR codes, cryptocurrency, gift cards, or mobile payment apps.
Any call demanding immediate payment or threatening arrest is a scam.
What To Do: HANG UP IMMEDIATELY!
You are always welcome to independently verify any claim by contacting the Madison County Sheriff’s Office directly using a publicly listed phone number.
Scammers are becoming bolder and more convincing. The Madison County Sheriff’s Office urges citizens to remain vigilant and to share this warning with friends, family members, and especially elderly loved ones.
DO NOT BE A VICTIM. HANG UP. VERIFY. REPORT.
For questions or to report suspected fraud, contact the Madison County Sheriff’s Office at 731-423-6000.
For more local crime coverage, click here.
