The Sarasota County Sheriff’s Office is warning residents about a scam that’s using the agency’s own name to earn trust. Callers are posing as sheriff’s office victim advocates, and they’re using spoofing technology so the call appears to come from the agency’s real phone number. According to the sheriff’s office, several recent reports describe callers using that credibility to persuade residents into sending money.
Spoofing is what makes this one sneaky. The number on your screen isn’t proof of anything, since scammers can display almost any number they want. A call that looks like it’s coming from the sheriff’s office can just as easily come from a scam operation across the country, or overseas.
The sheriff’s office’s guidance is straightforward: be cautious of unexpected calls requesting payment, hang up if something feels off, and verify by calling the agency directly at a number you look up yourself. They’re also asking residents to share the warning with friends and family, especially older neighbors and relatives who are frequent targets. Have you or someone you know gotten a call like this? Tell us on our Facebook page.
