Morris County Sheriff's Office issues warning about warrant phone scam
Sheriff’s officials emphasized that legitimate law enforcement agencies will never order individuals to provide money
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Fraudsters are impersonating Morris County sheriff officers in a widespread phone scam designed to trick residents into paying cash to clear fake outstanding warrants.
The "you have a warrant" phone scam is a nationwide problem, according to authorities.
Officials say scammers are utilizing spoofing technology to manipulate caller ID displays, making it appear as though the incoming call is originating from an actual local law enforcement agency.
Authorities noted that these fraudsters often operate remotely from locations outside of Morris County, or even from outside of the United States.
Victims receive an unsolicited phone call from an individual identifying themselves as an officer or employee of the Morris County Sheriff’s Office or another law enforcement agency.
The caller falsely claims the victim has an outstanding warrant and threatens immediate arrest unless a financial payment is made over the phone.
Sheriff’s officials emphasized that legitimate law enforcement agencies will never order individuals to provide money, credit card data, or wire transfers over the phone to avoid arrest. While the Morris County Sheriff's Office Warrant Squad does occasionally call individuals who are overdue on child support payments, these calls are only made on a limited basis after the individual has already received an official notification letter.
To help residents avoid falling victim to financial fraud, the sheriff's office advises being highly suspicious of any unsolicited caller who demands immediate payment for any reason.
Citizens should never provide private, personal, or financial information to anyone who calls or emails you unsolicited, nor should you ever wire money or provide debit or credit card numbers to a stranger.
If you receive one of these fraudulent calls, officials advise attempting to gather the caller's name, telephone number, and any other specific details before hanging up so you can immediately report the call to local police.
