Westlake Police warn of scammers threatening arrest, requesting bail payment with cryptocurrency

WESTLAKE, Ohio (WOIO) – Westlake Police posted on Facebook Sunday warning residents of a scam requesting cryptocurrency payments for “preemptive bail.”

Westlake Police said in a post that a resident received a call from someone claiming to be from the Cuyahoga County Sheriff’s Office saying the resident had active warrants.

The scammer sent the resident legitimate-looking documents, according to the post.

The resident offered to turn himself in at the Justice Centers, according to the post, but the scammer said the only way to avoid arrest was to pay a “preemptive bail” at the nearest cryptocurrency machine.

The resident called Westlake Police to check the legitimacy of the call before depositing any money.

Westlake Police are reminding residents that no agency will have you pay bail with gift cards or Bitcoin.

Westlake Police also said that no company will insist you stay on the phone when withdrawing cash from the bank or guide you on what to say to the teller to avoid suspicion.

“If you receive an unexpected text, email or call, be very wary,” the post read. “Education will help stem the fear that these scammers use to get your hard earned money!”

Always be sure to independently check information and never disclose personal information or allow remote control of personal devices unless sought after, Westlake Police said.

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