Scammers Are Posing As Sheriff's Deputies In Williams County

If it feels like scam warnings have become a regular occurrence, that's because they have. Once again, the Williams County Sheriff's Office is alerting residents about scammers who are impersonating law enforcement officers in an attempt to steal personal information and money.

Officials say they have received another round of reports involving callers who falsely claim to be deputies with the sheriff's office. During these calls, scammers attempt to pressure victims into providing sensitive personal information or demand immediate payment over the phone.

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ND Scam Alert

How to Spot the Scam and Protect Yourself

The Sheriff's Office wants residents to know one important fact: real law enforcement officers will never demand payment over the phone. They also emphasized that deputies will never require someone to pay fines or fees using cryptocurrency such as Bitcoin, gift cards, or other unconventional payment methods.

Scammers often rely on fear and urgency to convince people to act before thinking. They may claim you have missed jury duty, failed to appear in court, or have an outstanding warrant that can supposedly be resolved with immediate payment. These tactics are designed to create panic and pressure victims into making quick decisions.

The Williams County Sheriff's Office encourages anyone who receives a suspicious phone call asking for personal information or payment to hang up immediately. If something doesn't seem right, trust your instincts.

Residents can also verify whether a call is legitimate by contacting the Williams County Sheriff's Office directly. Instead of calling back the number provided by the suspicious caller, use the sheriff's office non-emergency line at 701-577-7700 to speak with staff and confirm whether anyone from the office actually attempted to contact you.

ND Scam Alert

Help Spread the Word and Stay One Step Ahead of Scammers

Officials are also asking community members to share this warning with friends, family members, and especially older adults who may not use social media and may be more vulnerable to these types of scams.

As scammers continue to change their tactics across North Dakota, staying informed remains one of the best defenses. Remember these simple tips:

Law enforcement will never demand payment over the phone.
Never provide personal or financial information to an unexpected caller.
If a call seems suspicious, hang up and verify it by calling the Williams County Sheriff's Office at 701-577-7700.

A few minutes of caution could prevent you from becoming the next victim of a costly scam.