Carson City Sheriff: Be wary of phone call scam

A recent telephone scam, in which callers impersonate law enforcement officers, has the Carson City Sheriff’s Office warning residents not to relay personal information over the phone, especially financial information.

“The callers demand payment in exchange for not arresting the person or seeking a warrant for arrest,” CCSO said in a news release. “The callers often demand payment in the form of gift cards or asking for credit/debit card information.”

Genuine CCSO personnel will not contact people via phone demanding payment in lieu of arrest and will not demand payment over the phone for warrants or missing jury duty, the release said.

“If there is any question about the legitimacy of a phone call from a Carson City Sheriff’s Office employee, contact the sheriff’s office at 775-887-2500,” the release said.

CCSO encouraged the public “to stay vigilant against scam telephone calls.”

“Scammers evolve their tactics, and different scenarios are frequently reported. If a suspicious call is received, people should hang up and not provide personal information,” according to the release. “If anyone has been a victim of a crime, they are encouraged to call 911 or Carson City Dispatch non-emergency at 775-887-2677.”