Alert in Greenwood: Scam Calls on the Rise

News Summary

Residents of Greenwood are being warned about a significant increase in scam phone calls, with fraudsters impersonating law enforcement and threatening arrest over unpaid fines. Local authorities urge the public to remain vigilant and to report suspicious calls. Legitimate agencies do not demand payments over the phone. The community is encouraged to hang up and report any scams to help protect others.

Alert in Greenwood: Scam Calls on the Rise

Residents of Greenwood are being urged to stay on high alert as local authorities, including the Greenwood Police Department and the Greenwood County Sheriff’s Office, warn about a troubling increase in scam phone calls. These scams have taken a particularly alarming turn, with fraudsters impersonating law enforcement officers and threatening unsuspecting individuals with arrest due to unpaid fines or legal issues.

The Sinister Tactics of Scammers

Imagine picking up the phone, only to hear a voice claiming to be a police officer telling you that there are urgent legal matters that need your attention immediately. These scam calls create a sense of urgency, pressuring victims to act quickly. The impostors typically instruct victims to make immediate payments to avoid arrest, which can be incredibly stressful for anyone receiving such a call.

What’s even more concerning is the method of payment they often demand. Victims are typically asked to purchase a MasterCard “One” card from retailers such as Walmart, providing only the last eight digits and the CVV number. This tactic ensures that the scammers can quickly access the funds without any traceable links back to them.

Law Enforcement Isn’t Asking for Your Money

It’s essential to remember that legitimate law enforcement agencies will never ask for payment over the phone or request any financial information in this manner. If you find yourself in a situation where someone is demanding money or personal details over the phone, it is a red flag. Authorities emphasize that residents should never share any financial details over the phone, particularly if they didn’t initiate the call.

People should take swift action if they receive a suspicious call. Hanging up immediately is the best course of action, followed by reporting the incident to local law enforcement or the Federal Trade Commission to help protect others in the community from similar scams.

Broader Scamming Issues in the Area

In addition, some scammers take a more sinister route, falsely claiming that they have outstanding warrants against their victims. They threaten arrest unless payment is sent immediately, causing panic and confusion. It’s vital to understand that legitimate businesses and government agencies will not request payment through phone calls or texts for financial matters.

Be Wary of Unusual Payment Methods

Another tactic utilized by scammers involves instructing victims to purchase gift cards or other prepaid cards, then sharing the card information over the phone. This is a critical warning sign—no legitimate operation would ever use these methods for financial transactions. Remember, any official communication from the sheriff’s office will only be conducted through the United States Postal Service.

Reporting Suspicious Activity

If you’re in Greenwood and have encountered any suspicious phone calls, you can call the non-emergency number for the Greenwood Police Department to report these scams. Staying informed and vigilant can help keep our community safe from these fraudulent activities.