News

Released: February 28, 2014 - Friday, 02:50 PM

Phone Scam

Contact: Tony CipollaPhone: (805) 781 4547Date and time of incident: 2-28-14Place of Occurrence: San Luis Obispo CountyVictim Information: N/ASuspect Information: N/AThe San Luis Obispo County Sheriff's Office is warning about a phone scam that is being reported in the area. The Sheriff's Office has received a number of reports from people who have received a phone call that appears to be coming directly from the Sheriff's Office. The caller identifies themselves as a member of the Sheriff's Office and warns the resident about a delinquent fine they must pay. The caller proceeds to tell the resident if they don't pay the fine immediately, the Sheriff's Office will issue a warrant for their arrest. In each case, the resident is asked to provide their bank account number so the funds can be withdrawn electronically. The caller also asks the resident for their email address to send them a receipt. Santa Barbara County and Ventura County Sheriff's Offices have recently reported this same type of scam. The Sheriff's Office reminds you that it is not our practice to contact residents by phone regarding these matters. We also caution you to never give out personal or financial information over the phone. Anyone who receives a call like this should report it to their local law enforcement agency.