News
Released: December 6, 2023 - Wednesday, 06:57 PM
We have received numerous reports today that someone claiming to be from the Sheriff's Office has contacted individuals to inform them they were due in court for jury duty. The caller ID "spoofed" an actual number which made it appear to be coming from the Sheriff's Office.
The caller proceeds to explain that individuals can clear the matter by paying a fine through the use of bitcoin or other cryptocurrency.
One resident was almost bilked out of $1,700 but the transaction was not successful.
We want to caution residents this is a scam. The Sheriff's Office reminds you that it is not our practice to contact residents by phone regarding these matters. Anyone who receives a call like this should report it to their local law enforcement agency.
Please inform your family and friends about this scam so they can be prepared in the event they receive a call like this.
Phone Scam
Contact: Tony CipollaPhone: (805) 781-4547Date and time of incident: 12-6-2023Place of Occurrence: San Luis Obispo CountyVictim Information: N/ASuspect Information: N/AThe Sheriff's Office is warning residents of a phone scam making its way through San Luis Obispo County during the holiday season.We have received numerous reports today that someone claiming to be from the Sheriff's Office has contacted individuals to inform them they were due in court for jury duty. The caller ID "spoofed" an actual number which made it appear to be coming from the Sheriff's Office.
The caller proceeds to explain that individuals can clear the matter by paying a fine through the use of bitcoin or other cryptocurrency.
One resident was almost bilked out of $1,700 but the transaction was not successful.
We want to caution residents this is a scam. The Sheriff's Office reminds you that it is not our practice to contact residents by phone regarding these matters. Anyone who receives a call like this should report it to their local law enforcement agency.
Please inform your family and friends about this scam so they can be prepared in the event they receive a call like this.
