SCAM ALERT: New phone scam poses as San Luis Obispo’s Sheriff’s Department

The San Luis Obispo County Sheriff’s Office is warning about a phone scam that’s once again targeting residents in the County.

Several people have called the department recently to report they had been contacted by someone claiming to be from the Sheriff’s Office.

The scammers were able to “spoof” one of the phone numbers at the Sheriff’s Office so it appears like the call is coming from the real sheriff’s department on caller ID.

The scam call, warned residents there was a warrant out for their arrest because they failed to appear for jury duty. The caller indicates the resident can clear the warrant by making arrangements to give them a green dot card/prepaid debit card.

There has been one case where a county resident fell victim to this scam with a reported loss of $800.

A warning to residents, these calls have no connection to the San Luis Obispo County Sheriff’s Office.

The Sheriff’s Office reminds you that it is not their practice to contact residents by phone regarding these matters. Anyone who receives a call like this should report it to their local law enforcement agency.

Please inform your family and friends about this scam, so they can be prepared in the event they receive a call like this.