Scam Warnings and What to Do

Do this now

• If someone is demanding money or secrecy: hang up.
• Verify using a trusted number (not the caller’s).
• Never pay with gift cards, crypto, wire, or cash pickup.
• Never click on links in an email; visit the real site to conduct any business.
• Report a scam: Flagler County Sheriff’s Office non-emergency (386) 313-4911

Red Flags

A simple checklist people can screenshot:

• Urgency + threats of arrest
• “Stay on the phone” / “Don’t tell anyone”
• Payment demanded by gift cards / crypto / wire / cash pickup
• Spoofed numbers / caller ID looks official
• Pop-up says you’re hacked and gives a phone number
• Caller tries to convince you to leave your debit/credit card outside your residence to be picked up.

Common Scams We’re Seeing Right Now

Law Enforcement / Warrant Scam (Impersonation)

Scammers may call pretending to be a deputy, sergeant, or federal officer—often using spoofed phone numbers to look legitimate. They’ll claim you missed jury duty, have a warrant, or owe fines and demand immediate payment by cryptocurrency, gift cards, wire transfer, or cash to “avoid arrest.” They may pressure you to stay on the phone or tell you not to talk to anyone.

Law enforcement will never call to collect money for warrants, fines, or bail.

Bail / “Grandparent” Scam

Scammers call pretending to be a loved one—often a grandchild—claiming they’ve been arrested or were in an accident and need bail money immediately. They may beg you not to tell other family members and sometimes arrange for a “courier” to pick up cash from your home.

If you get a call like this, pause and verify before doing anything—don’t rely on the caller’s story or urgency.

Our Fraud & Scam prevention workshop this past March.