Kern County authorities are warning residents about phone and text scams where callers pose as sheriff’s personnel and demand payment for fake warrants, court issues, or ankle monitor fees. (Shutterstock)
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The Kern County Sheriff’s Office is warning residents about phone and text message scams targeting people with demands for payment.
Scammers have been posing as sheriff’s office personnel, claiming victims owe money for fake warrants, missed jury duty, or court issues. They often request payment via gift cards, Bitcoin, or other electronic methods and sometimes threaten arrest.
Officials said some messages now claim recipients owe toll road or DMV fees, while others involve phone calls falsely stating that money is needed to cover the cost of ankle monitors for an incarcerated friend or family member upon release.
“Do not send money,” the sheriff’s office said. “The Kern County Sheriff’s Office will NEVER ask for payment over the phone or via text.”
The office advised residents to hang up if a call seems suspicious and report scams to (661) 861-3110. Red flags include spoofed numbers, urgent payment demands, and callers refusing to let recipients hang up.
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