Deputies warn of phone scams impacting Augusta community

AUGUSTA, Ga. (WRDW/WAGT) – On Friday, the Richmond County Sheriff’s Office issued a warning to the public regarding a phone scam targeting the Augusta community.

The sheriff’s office says scammers are using tactics, including spoofing phone numbers to appear as if they are calling from the sheriff’s office, court services and other services.

The current scam involves callers impersonating sheriff’s office employees, demanding payment for services such as release from detention, electronic monitoring or other fees, according to deputies.

The sheriff’s office says in a recent case, a scammer posing as “Sgt. John Lewis” demanded over $300 for a leg monitor. The scammer later requested additional funds, directing the victim to provide payment via a bar code at a retail store.

The phone number, 706-821-1000, which is the official Richmond County Sheriff’s Office line, was spoofed during the scam to lend credibility to the fraudulent calls, deputies say.

Key reminders to avoid being scammed:

• The Richmond County Sheriff’s Office says they will never demand payment over the phone.
• If you receive a call that seems suspicious, hang up immediately and contact the agency or business directly by looking up the official number on their website.
• Avoid providing money or personal information to unknown individuals, especially when payment methods involve gift cards, bar codes, wire transfers, debit cards or other non-traditional methods.

The sheriff’s office says to report the scam immediately to local law enforcement.

For questions or to report suspicious activity, contact the Richmond County Sheriff’s Office at 706-821-1000.

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