Protect Yourself: How To Avoid Falling Victim To Phone Scams

The Williams County Sheriff's Office has issued a warning about an increase in phone scams targeting residents. Scammers are attempting to steal personal information by posing as legitimate entities.

Authorities advise caution when receiving calls that offer money or rewards in exchange for personal details or request payments via wire transfer or gift cards.

Some callers may impersonate a family member in distress, asking for money to cover a non-existent debt. If you encounter such a call, it is important to report it immediately to the Williams County Sheriff's Office non-emergency line.

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Steps to Avoid Scams:

1. Be Skeptical of Unsolicited Calls: If you receive a call from someone you don’t know, especially if they offer something too good to be true or pressure you to make a quick decision, be cautious.
2. Don’t Share Personal Information: Never give out personal or financial information over the phone unless you are certain of the caller's identity. Legitimate organizations will never ask for sensitive information through unexpected calls.
3. Verify the Caller’s Identity: If the caller claims to be a relative or a representative from a known organization, hang up and contact the person or organization directly using a verified phone number.
4. Avoid Wire Transfers and Gift Cards: Scammers often ask for payment through wire transfers or gift cards because they are difficult to trace. If someone asks you to pay in this manner, it’s likely a scam.
5. Use Caller ID and Call Blocking: Utilize caller ID to screen calls and block any suspicious or unwanted numbers. Many smartphones and landlines have these features built-in.
6. Report Suspicious Calls: If you suspect that you have been targeted by a scam, report the incident to your local law enforcement agency or the Williams County Sheriff's Office non-emergency line. Reporting helps authorities track and prevent further scams.

By following these steps, you can protect yourself and others from falling victim to phone scams.