Greenwood County, SC – Residents are being urged to stay alert after the Greenwood County Sheriff’s Office issued a warning about an active phone scam targeting local citizens this week.
According to the Greenwood County Sheriff’s Office, scammers are contacting residents while claiming to be federal or local law enforcement officers. The callers allegedly tell victims they have an outstanding arrest warrant and pressure them to act quickly to avoid being taken into custody.
Authorities say the scammers are using phony arrest warrants, listing residents’ names, and in some cases sending images of fake court documents to make the threats appear legitimate. Victims have also reported being sent a QR code or instructions to send money immediately.
The sheriff’s office stressed that law enforcement will never demand payment over the phone, by text, or through QR codes. Officials also emphasized that if someone truly had a federal or local warrant, officers would appear in person rather than requesting money remotely.
“Do NOT give these people the time of day or your money,” the sheriff’s office stated in its alert. “PLEASE BE CAUTIOUS.”
Residents are encouraged to hang up immediately if they receive one of these calls and avoid engaging further. Anyone who believes they may have been targeted or who shared personal or financial information should contact local law enforcement as soon as possible.
The Greenwood Police Department and Greenwood County Sheriff’s Office are asking the public to share this warning with friends, family, and neighbors, particularly older residents who are often targeted in impersonation scams.
Officials also remind residents that legitimate court notices come through official mail or in-person service — not threatening phone calls.
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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