Lehigh County residents are being targeted by phone scammers who pose as deputies or detectives from the sheriff’s office.
The Scam in Action
Callers claim that you owe fines, missed jury duty, or ignored a subpoena. They insist that you must pay immediately over the phone to avoid further penalties. The goal of these calls is to collect money or personal information.
Red Flags to Spot
The sheriff’s office never asks residents to pay fines over the phone. A second warning sign is the use of scare tactics, such as a sense of urgency, to pressure you into handing over money or details. A third red flag is when the caller tells you not to hang up or not to tell anyone that you are withdrawing money.
Official Warning
Officials with the Lehigh County Sheriff’s Office have warned residents to avoid falling for these scams. They emphasized that the office does not request payments by phone. The warning was shared through NBC10 Responds.
How to Protect Yourself
If you receive a call claiming to be from the sheriff’s office, do not share any personal information or make a payment. Verify the caller’s identity by calling the sheriff’s office directly. Keep a record of the caller’s number and any details they provide.
What to Do If You Suspect a Scam
If you think you may have fallen victim to this type of scam, or if you are targeted by a similar scheme, call the Lehigh County Sheriff’s Office at 610‑782‑3175. Alternatively, contact the Lehigh County Communications Center at 610‑437‑5252 for assistance.
Consumer Complaint Line
For a consumer complaint, call 215‑201‑5310. This line is available for residents who want to report suspicious activity or seek help with potential scams.
NBC10 Responds Coverage
NBC10 Responds reporter Valeria Aponte‑Feliciano explains how to protect yourself from these fraudsters. Her segment includes tips and official statements from the sheriff’s office.
Key Takeaways
- The sheriff’s office does not ask residents to pay fines over the phone.
- Scammers use urgency and scare tactics to pressure victims.
- If you suspect a scam, call 610‑782‑3175 or 610‑437‑5252.
Stay Informed
Residents are urged to remain vigilant and to report any suspicious calls. The sheriff’s office and NBC10 Responds continue to provide updates and resources to help protect the community from phone fraud.
