SHERIFFS AGAINST SCAMS

Technology evolves quickly, and criminals evolve with it. From phone and text scams impersonating law enforcement, to fraud on online marketplaces, bad actors are using increasingly sophisticated tactics to deceive victims and steal their money. Scammers are targeting Americans every day. These schemes are widespread, targeting people of all ages across the country.

Scammers use phone calls, texts, emails, social media, and online ads. They pretend to be law enforcement, banks, or even someone you trust.

“As sheriffs, our job is not only to enforce the law but, ideally, to deter and prevent crime before it happens. One of the best ways that we can do that is through education. We need to educate the people we serve. While financial institutions generally have good warning systems in place, sometimes people do not heed these warnings… Sometimes people need to hear warnings from law enforcement directly. That is why it is incumbent on us to use our platforms to warn people about this very real threat.”

— Sheriff Paul Fitzgerald, Story County, Iowa

Remember: Slow down. Verify. Hang up. Don’t click. Don’t send money.

Have a success story or resource to share?

We are always looking to highlight effective scam prevention efforts and add new tools for communities. For questions or submissions, please contact kbarksdale@sheriffs.org.