Sheriff Impersonator Scam Prompts Public Warning

A reoccurring Sheriff impersonator scam incident has prompted the Department of Public Safety Sheriff Division to put out another warning.

In recent days, several people have called the Sheriff Division to report that an individual contacted them via cellphone claiming to be a deputy sheriff. In many of these cases, the Sheriff impersonator typically states that the individual owed money for outstanding warrants, traffic citations and/or missed jury duty. The scammer usually instructs the victim to send money electronically. In some of these cases the victims paid money to these scammers using crypto currency.

The public is reminded that Sheriffs do not call, text or email people asking for personal information or to solicit payment electronically or by phone. Hawaii residents are also advised not to provide credit card numbers, bank account information or other personal information to callers claiming to represent a law enforcement agency.

If you receive a call, text or email matching this scam alert the Sheriff Division by calling 586-1352.

TIPS TO PROTECT YOURSELF:

• Do not communicate with unsolicited e-mail or phone text senders.
• Do not open e-mails, attachments or links sent by text from unknown individuals.
• Never provide personal information of any sort via phone, text or e-mail. Be aware that many e-mails requesting your personal information appear to be legitimate.