Lake County, IL – Residents across Lake County are being warned to stay alert after a rise in phone scams where callers falsely claim to be from the Lake County Sheriff’s Office and demand immediate payment.
According to the Lake County Sheriff’s Office, scammers are posing as deputies or employees and telling residents they missed jury duty, have an active warrant, or owe fines or fees. The callers then pressure victims to pay immediately over the phone. Authorities stress these calls are completely fake.
Officials say the scammers often use convincing tactics, including real names of sheriff’s office employees, spoofed caller ID numbers that appear to come from law enforcement, and urgent threats meant to scare people into paying quickly. Victims are frequently instructed to send money using gift cards, wire transfers, or mobile payment apps.
The sheriff’s office noted that these scams are common nationwide and often originate from outside the United States. No legitimate employee from the Lake County Sheriff’s Office will ever call and demand money, threaten arrest over the phone, or request payment through nontraditional methods.
Residents who receive a suspicious call are urged to hang up immediately. Anyone unsure about a call claiming to be from the sheriff’s office can verify it by calling the Lake County Sheriff’s Office directly at 847-377-4000.
Authorities also encourage victims or attempted victims to report the incident to their local police department. Officials emphasize that sharing this information is especially important to help protect seniors and others who may be more vulnerable to these types of scams.
Law enforcement continues to remind the public that legitimate jury notices, warrants, or court-related matters are never handled through threatening phone calls demanding instant payment.
This article was produced by a journalist and may include AI-assisted input. All content is reviewed for accuracy and fairness.
Follow us on Instagram & Facebook for more relevant news stories and SUPPORT LOCAL INDEPENDENT NEWS! Have a tip? Message us!
