Don’t Fall for It, North Dakota: Fake Sheriff Calls Demand Payment

Local law enforcement is sounding the alarm once again on a phone scam that has popped up again in North Dakota. The Williams County Sheriff’s Office reports multiple calls from residents who say they were contacted by someone impersonating law enforcement and demanding payment.

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Sheriff’s Office Warns: Hang Up on Scammers Demanding Payment by Phone

Authorities stress that these calls are fraudulent, and residents should remain vigilant when answering unexpected requests for money. Scammers often use familiar tactics to gain trust and create urgency. Common methods include:

• Pretending to be from a trusted organization, such as the Sheriff’s Office.

• Claiming there is a problem or a prize that requires immediate attention.

• Applying pressure by insisting the person act right away.

• Instructing the victim to pay in a specific way, often through gift cards, wire transfers, or prepaid debit cards.

The Williams County Sheriff’s Office reminds you that they will never call demanding payment over the phone. If you receive such a call, the best action is to hang up and verify the information through official channels.

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Think You’ve Been Targeted? Call Williams County Law Enforcement to Verify

If you suspect a scam, do should not provide any personal or financial information. Instead, you are encouraged to contact law enforcement directly. To confirm the legitimacy of any call, you can reach the Williams County non-emergency line at 701-577-7700 or the Williams County Dispatch Center at 701-713-3355 to be connected with a deputy.

Staying alert and cautious is the best defense against scammers. By recognizing the warning signs and reporting suspicious activity, the community can help stop these schemes before they claim more victims.