YORK COUNTY, Pa. — The York County Sheriff's Office is warning residents of a phone scam going around the area.
Officials say scammers will identify themselves as a specific member of the Sheriff's Office and claim the victim has outstanding warrants or civil penalties that must be paid via Bitcoin. They are also referencing Sgt. Strine and Lt. Godfrey as points of contacts if there are questions.
The Sheriff's Office says the scammers are communicating by phone, text and email and "appear 100% legit." Emails with the prefix of "@yorkcountypa.gov" are being used and caller ID is showing a real Sheriff's Office phone number by spoofing it. They also allegedly identify as current members of the Sheriff's Office and make it sound official.
"Just like the other scams we have warned everyone of, this is not a legit call," the Office said on Facebook. "DO NOT CLICK ON ANY LINKS. DO NOT GIVE ANY PERSONAL INFORMATION."
Officials say residents who receive a call to this effect that they are suspicious of should hang up, call (717) 771-9601 and ask to speak to a supervisor. The Office will verify if the phone call was legit.
Those who suspect they may be a victim of a scam are advised to contact their local police department immediately.
"The Sheriff's Office never calls anyone soliciting payments for warrants or anything else," the Facebook post continues. "We will never call and ask you for any form of money."