Geneseo, NY – Residents across Livingston County are being warned today after scammers allegedly impersonated members of the Livingston County Sheriff’s Office, claiming victims had active arrest warrants and demanding payment through gift cards.
According to the Livingston County Sheriff’s Office, the scheme begins with a phone call from a subject who falsely claims to be with the department. The caller allegedly tells residents that a warrant has been issued for their arrest and that the only way to resolve the issue is by purchasing gift cards from a local store and providing the codes over the phone. Deputies emphasized that this tactic is a common hallmark of nationwide financial fraud schemes.
The Sheriff’s Office reported that when one resident attempted to return the call, the number routed them to an automated menu offering options such as “Investigations,” further mimicking an official agency system. The phone number used during the report is no longer active, officials said.
According to deputies, the Sheriff’s Office will never request payment of any kind—especially bond or fines—through gift cards, prepaid cards, or similar methods. They stress that law enforcement agencies do not solicit financial information over the phone and do not demand immediate payment in exchange for clearing a warrant.
Residents who receive similar calls are urged to hang up immediately and avoid engaging with the scammer. Anyone who believes they may have been targeted or who has information about the calls should contact the Livingston County Sheriff’s Office directly at (585) 243-7100.
Authorities remind the public that these scams often escalate during tax season and around holidays, when fraud attempts historically increase.
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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