Lafayette County sheriff warns residents about payment scams

The Lafayette County Sheriff's Office is warning residents that scammers may pressure them to send money immediately through cryptocurrency, gift cards, payment apps, wire transfers or other online payment methods. The advisory was issued by Sheriff Joey East and the Sheriff's Office.

The office said law enforcement will not demand payment through cryptocurrency or gift cards. It also urged people not to send money when someone threatens them with arrest, fines or legal action.

The advisory cautioned residents not to rely on caller ID, even when a number appears to belong to a legitimate agency. Anyone who is uncertain should hang up and contact the agency directly using a verified phone number, the office said.

The Sheriff's Office urged residents to stop before sending money and warned that funds may be gone for good once they are sent. Its message: “Slow down. Verify. Think before you pay.”

Source: Lafayette County Sheriff's Office.