Text claims you owe tolls or there's a package at Amazon you didn't order are likely to be scams.
Douglas County deputies aren’t calling or texting residents to say they owe a fine and should immediately pay it by purchasing Bitcoin.
The Douglas County Sheriff’s Office issued a warning on Monday that residents of a call and text message scam from individuals impersonating deputies to fraudulently obtain money.
“Scammers use fear to create urgency and request immediate payment,” said Sheriff Dan Coverley. “If you receive such a call, hang up and contact our office immediately to report suspicious activity. Remember to never provide financial information or make payments using untraceable methods to someone you don’t know or cannot verify.”
The Sheriff’s Office has received numerous reports from citizens who have been contacted by someone claiming to be a deputy with the Sheriff’s Office.
The caller indicates there is an arrest warrant or missed jury duty notice and that a payment must be made immediately to avoid legal action. The scammers typically demand payment through untraceable methods such as gift cards or deposits made at Bitcoin ATMs.
The Douglas County Sheriff’s Office does not collect fines. Fines are only issued through the courts, either following a citation or a court adjudication. Legitimate fines are never paid with gift cards, cryptocurrency, or similar methods.
For information, visit sheriff.douglascountynv.gov or call 775-782-9900.