BINGHAMTON — The Broome County Sheriff’s Office is alerting residents about a phone scam in which callers are impersonating law enforcement officials to solicit money and gift cards.
Several residents have reported receiving calls within the past 24 hours from individuals claiming to be detectives or deputies from the Sheriff’s Office.
The scammers tell victims they have missed court appearances and threaten them with arrest warrants or thousands of dollars in fines.
“Don’t be fooled, the Broome County Sheriff’s Office will never ask for credit card information or any form of payment over the phone,” said Sheriff Fred Akshar.
During these calls, victims are told they are on a recorded line and advised not to tell anyone about the conversation.
If the victim remains on the line, the scammer eventually requests payment via credit card or other methods.
Officials urge residents to hang up immediately if they receive such calls and to never share credit card information over the phone.
Similar scam attempts have targeted Broome County residents in previous years.
Anyone who receives a suspicious call is encouraged to report it to the Broome County Sheriff’s Office at 607-778-1911.
