Jackson County, FL – Scammers are targeting Jackson County, Florida residents through fake phone calls and text messages, pretending to be members of the Sheriff’s Office and demanding immediate payment, the department warned Tuesday.
According to a social media alert from the Jackson County Sheriff’s Office, scammers are impersonating deputies and court officials, falsely claiming individuals owe money for missed jury duty, warrants, or other court-related issues. The fraudulent messages often demand payment through gift cards, Bitcoin, or other digital methods — and in many cases, threaten arrest.
Authorities also report a new wave of scam texts alleging unpaid tolls or DMV fees. These messages are fake, and residents are urged not to click links or send payments.
Red flags listed by the department include:
- Calls or texts appearing from official numbers
- Urgent demands for immediate payment
- The caller refusing to let the person hang up
“These calls are scams,” said Sheriff Edenfield in a public notice. “Our office will never ask for payments over the phone or through text, nor will we demand gift cards or cryptocurrency as payment.”
Residents are encouraged to report suspicious calls or messages to the Sheriff’s Office and to warn others in their household, especially elderly family members, who may be more vulnerable to these tactics.
The Sheriff’s Office recommends ignoring and blocking any suspicious numbers and verifying all official communications directly through the department’s verified contact lines or official website.
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