Madison County, TN – Residents across Madison County and surrounding West Tennessee areas are being warned today about a highly sophisticated scam involving fake court documents, stolen government logos, spoofed phone numbers, and QR codes used to steal thousands of dollars.
According to the Madison County Sheriff’s Office, scammers are impersonating law enforcement officers and court officials, falsely claiming victims have missed court dates or have active arrest warrants. The calls are designed to create panic, keeping victims on the phone for hours while demanding immediate payment.
In a recent case, a Madison County resident was allegedly scammed out of thousands of dollars after being told a warrant had been issued for their arrest. The victim reportedly received fraudulent court paperwork that appeared legitimate and was instructed to send money using cryptocurrency through a QR code, authorities said.
Sheriff’s officials confirmed the documents shared publicly are actual scam materials used in recent incidents, highlighting how realistic and convincing these fraud attempts can appear.
The Sheriff’s Office stressed several key facts residents should remember:
- Law enforcement will never demand payment over the phone.
- Courts and sheriff’s offices do not accept bond, fines, or fees via QR codes, cryptocurrency, gift cards, or payment apps.
- Any call threatening immediate arrest or demanding urgent payment is a scam.
Residents are urged to hang up immediately if they receive such calls and independently verify claims by contacting the Madison County Sheriff’s Office using a publicly listed phone number.
Authorities are encouraging residents to share this warning, especially with elderly family members, as scammers continue to grow bolder and more convincing.
Anyone with questions or who believes they may have been targeted is asked to contact the Madison County Sheriff’s Office at 731-423-6000.
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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