Lafayette County sheriff warns residents about payment scams

The Lafayette County Sheriff's Office warned residents about scams in which callers pressure people to send money immediately through cryptocurrency, gift cards, payment apps, wire transfers or other online payment methods.

The office said law enforcement will not demand payment through cryptocurrency or gift cards. It also warned residents not to send money when someone threatens them with arrest, fines or legal action.

The sheriff's office cautioned that caller ID should not be trusted, even when a displayed number appears to belong to a legitimate agency. The office advised people who are uncertain to hang up and contact the agency directly using a verified phone number.

The warning was issued by Sheriff Joey East and the Lafayette County Sheriff's Office, which said money sent to scammers may be gone for good.

Source: Original source announcement