Scammers are again impersonating Sheriff’s detectives and deputies and contacting Broome County residents in an effort to solicit money and gift cards from unsuspecting victims. Residents are reminded NOT to provide credit card or other payment information over the phone to anyone claiming to be law enforcement.
“Don’t be fooled, the Broome County Sheriff’s Office will never ask for credit card information or any form of payment over the phone,” said Sheriff Fred Akshar. “If you believe you’ve received a scam phone call, please contact the Sheriff’s Office so a report can be filed.”
Over the past 24 hours, the Broome County Sheriff’s Office has received several new reports from residents who received phone calls from individuals pretending to be detectives or deputies of the BCSO. Residents were informed that they had missed their court appearances and were threatened with warrants for arrest or thousands of dollars in fines. During the conversation, the victims were told they were on a recorded line and advised not to inform anyone of the call. If the victim stays on the line long enough, the scammer will request payment in the form of credit card information or other means.
Residents are urged to terminate the call and not share any credit card information over the phone, no matter what the scammer says.
Similar scam calls have gone out to Broome County residents in prior years. Residents who receive scam calls are urged to contact the Broome County Sheriff’s Office at 607-778-1911
