The Beaumont Police Department is warning the public about a recent scam that has resulted in victims losing thousands of dollars.
In multiple reported incidents, scammers have contacted victims by phone, posing as law enforcement officers and claiming the victims have outstanding arrest warrants for failing to appear for federal jury duty.
The scammers use convincing tactics, including identifying themselves by an officer’s name and rank, sending fake arrest warrants, and telling victims they are under a “gag order” and cannot discuss the situation with anyone. Victims are pressured to remain on the phone, withdraw large amounts of cash from their banks, and deposit the money into Bitcoin machines.
IMPORTANT: Scammers are even spoofing the Beaumont Police Department’s non-emergency phone number (409-832-1234) to make their calls appear legitimate.
REMEMBER:
* Law enforcement will NEVER demand that you deposit money into a Bitcoin machine to avoid arrest.
* Officers will not require payment through cryptocurrency, gift cards, or wire transfers to resolve a warrant.
* Scammers often create a sense of urgency and threaten immediate arrest to pressure victims into acting.
* Just because a phone number appears legitimate on your caller ID does NOT mean the call is actually coming from that agency.
If you receive a suspicious call, HANG UP! Contact the law enforcement agency directly using a verified phone number. Do not send money or provide personal or financial information.
Scam alert