Scammers resume fake phone threats

Phone scammers are once again targeting people in Bonneville County.

The Bonneville County Sheriff’s Office said it had multiple calls from people victimized by callers claiming to be county deputies. They advise people that they have warrants for arrest unless they pay court fines with a “Green Dot” or other type of money card. Often, people will be asked to purchase multiple cards.

Two phone numbers were being used this week, including Idaho area codes. Those numbers were 208-656-4931 and 208-231-1699. The calls were made with obviously fraudulent voice mail messages using the Bonneville County Sheriff’s Office name and the name of a supposed officer.

The Sheriff’s Office says it does not use such tactics. In a statement, the department said:

“While there are times when Deputies from the Sheriff’s Office and other agencies will contact citizens by phone for various purposes, there is never a time when a Deputy will collect money over the phone to pay fines, avoid court appearances, avoid jail, or any other warrant type of situation. There is absolutely no time when a Deputy or Bonneville County official will solicit funds by having someone purchase a money card and give the numbers or information over the phone and receive payment for any type of violation, fines, or warrant.”

The scammers often have enough information about their victims to make their threats seem plausible. If the caller makes any attempt to ask for money, though, that is “always” an absolute indicator that the call is a scam.

If you get such a call and have concerns, hang up and call the Sheriff’s Office directly. Officers also encourage people to educate friends and relatives about the scams to help them avoid becoming a victim.