Chesapeake, VA – Residents across Chesapeake and the greater Hampton Roads region are being warned about a rise in aggressive scam attempts as the holiday season approaches. Local officials say scammers have recently increased calls, emails, texts, and social media messages aimed at tricking people into sending money, gift cards, or personal information.
According to the Chesapeake Sheriff’s Office, callers have been posing as law enforcement, government agencies, and even trusted businesses to pressure victims into paying supposed fines or responding to fake emergencies. The department stressed that it will never call residents demanding payment, gift cards, bank details, or personal information of any kind.
Officials say some of the most common scams involve fake “warrant” or “missed jury duty” calls, in which scammers allegedly claim the victim is facing arrest unless they immediately pay a fee. Others involve fraudsters pretending to be a relative in trouble, attempting to exploit holiday travel and family plans. Gift-card payment demands, fake online sellers, and phishing links sent through text or social media are also increasing.
The Sheriff’s Office emphasized that threats of arrest made over the phone or online are always fraudulent. “If something feels suspicious, it probably is,” the department stated in its warning.
Residents who receive suspicious calls or messages are urged to hang up, avoid clicking on any links, and report the incident immediately to local authorities or the Federal Trade Commission.
As scammers continue to target vulnerable residents during the holiday season, officials are asking the public to share this information with friends, neighbors, and family members—especially seniors, who are frequently targeted.
This article was produced by a journalist and may include AI-assisted input. All content is reviewed for accuracy and fairness.
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