News

Released: September 25, 2019 - Wednesday, 06:33 PM

Phone Scam

Contact: Tony CipollaPhone: (805) 781-4547Date and time of incident: Currently OngoingPlace 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's once again targeting residents in the County.
Several people have called us recently to report they had been contacted by someone claiming to be from the Sheriff's Office. The scammers were able to "spoof" one of our phone numbers here at the Sheriff's Office so it appears like the call is coming from us on caller ID.
Residents were warned there was a warrant out for their arrest because they failed to appear for jury duty. The caller indicates the resident can clear the warrant by making arrangements to give them a green dot card/prepaid debit card.
There has been one case where a county resident fell victim to this scam with a reported loss of $800.
We want to warn residents these calls have no connection to the San Luis Obispo County Sheriff's Office. 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.