Yorkville, IL – Residents across Yorkville and greater Kendall County are being warned today about a surge in scam phone calls impersonating local law enforcement, with callers demanding money and threatening arrest.
According to the Kendall County Sheriff’s Office, the scam involves callers claiming to be deputies from the Public Safety Center, telling victims they missed federal jury duty and must immediately pay a fee to avoid being taken into custody. Authorities say the callers often sound convincing and may even appear to be calling from official sheriff’s office phone numbers.
Officials stressed that these calls are fraudulent, noting that scammers are using “caller ID spoofing” technology to make the number appear legitimate. Victims are reportedly instructed not to contact the sheriff’s office or any local police department and are told payment must be made over the phone.
The sheriff’s office emphasized that law enforcement will never call residents to demand money or request payment through methods such as Bitcoin, Green Dot cards, iTunes gift cards, or other online payment platforms.
Anyone who receives a suspicious call is urged to hang up immediately. Residents can verify the legitimacy of any claim by contacting the Kendall County Sheriff’s Office directly at 630-553-5856.
Authorities also encourage the public to report scams through the Federal Trade Commission at reportfraud.ftc.gov to help track and prevent further incidents.
Officials are asking residents to remain vigilant and share the warning with friends and family, particularly those who may be more vulnerable to phone-based scams.
This article was produced by our editorial team with assistance from automated tools. Follow us on Instagram & Facebook for more relevant news stories and SUPPORT LOCAL INDEPENDENT NEWS! Have a tip? Message us!
