Sumter County deputies warn about a common phone scam that has returned

Photo: Sumter County Sheriff’s Office

SUMTER COUNTY, S.C. (WOLO)– The Sumter County Sheriff’s Office is warning people about a common phone scam that has returned, say deputies.

Sheriff Anthony Dennis has issued an urgent alert to the citizens of Sumter County to beware of callers posing as law enforcement officers.

The scam involves a caller claiming to be someone in local law enforcement, who claims that fines or fees must be paid immediately, or the targeted individual will face arrest.

The scammer urges their potential victims to pay their “fine” by using a credit card, debit card, cash app, gift card, or similar payment tool.

Also the scammer uses names of genuine law enforcement officials and the actual phone numbers of a local law enforcement agency.

Sumter County deputies say the scam also involves a second scammer who pretends to be a figure from local law enforcement who “verifies” the fine or warrant.

Some victims have been involved in a conference call using the actual number of a local agency so that it appears to be a legitimate call, says SCSO.

SCSO is reminding people to never give personal information to anyone by phone, text, or email.

If you receive calls warning you of impending additional fines or arrest if you do not pay by phone, hang up and contact the Sumter County Sheriff’s Office.

If you have been one of the many victims of a scam, report the incident to the sheriff’s office.