Elkhorn, WI – Residents across Walworth County are being warned today after officials reported a new wave of fraudulent phone calls from individuals impersonating members of the Sheriff’s Office.
According to the Walworth County Sheriff’s Office, multiple citizens said they received calls from someone claiming to be a deputy, lieutenant, or sergeant who insisted they needed to discuss an “urgent legal matter.” Authorities say the callers are not affiliated with the agency and are attempting to deceive residents into handing over personal or financial information.
The Sheriff’s Office emphasized that legitimate personnel will never demand immediate payment, request gift cards, or ask for sensitive information such as Social Security numbers over the phone. Scammers frequently use high-pressure tactics, officials noted, aiming to frighten residents into complying before they can verify the call.
Deputies encouraged anyone who receives a suspicious or unexpected law-enforcement-related call to hang up and contact the Sheriff’s Office non-emergency line to confirm whether the communication was legitimate. Officials said this remains the safest way to determine whether someone from the agency is truly attempting to reach you.
Law enforcement agencies throughout Wisconsin have seen an increase in caller ID spoofing, a tactic that allows scammers to mimic government phone numbers. The Walworth County Sheriff’s Office is urging the public to remain cautious, especially older adults and those who may be more vulnerable to fraud attempts.
Residents who believe they were targeted or provided information to a scammer are encouraged to file a report immediately.
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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