Scammers claim to be collecting on outstanding warrants

A warning from local law enforcement: Scammers are claiming to be from the Brookings County Sheriff’s Department and are attempting to collect money for what they claim are outstanding warrants.

Police Lt. marci Gebers says one brookings resident was victimized by the scam this week. She says the scammers have been able to spoof the Sheriff’s Department phone number and use the name of a local officer. The victim was told to purchase a gift card and give them the information needed to cash it.

The Sheriff’s Department says they would never collect on outstanding warrants over the phone.

If you receive such a call, report it to law enforcement.