Received a suspicious call? LA authorities advise to drop it ASAP

Calling all Los Angeles residents—LA scam calls are on the rise | Photo by Gabriel Gonzalez on Unsplash

Desperate times call for desperate measures, and surprisingly, scammers these days have a new strategy—using phone calls, according to the Los Angeles County Sheriff’s Department (LASD).

There’s a new hustle in town, and it’s got the Los Angeles County Sheriff’s Department’s (LASD) hotlines buzzing. In today’s techie world, these LA scam calls pretending to be LASD sergeants, deputies, or detectives aren’t the uninvited guests you’d like to encounter.

The LASD warns to “be alert, be advised.” The law enforcement agency will never call and demand money for fines or resolve warrants by “posting bail.” Moreso, they don’t issue warrants over the phone.

If it were a legitimate financial transaction, it will take place in person at patrol stations, custody facilities, and courthouses. Any government agency won’t ever ask for a gift card, money order, or wire transfer. They also will not pay a visit to collect the warrant fee.

How to identify these LA scam calls

To avoid being the next victim of this digital daylight robbery, here are some street-smart advice from authorities:

• Keep any information zipped: Never share any personal details over the phone—no PIN, bank information, or social security numbers.
• Scam alert: If your gut tells you it feels off, it probably is—do not send any money.
• Verify (endlessly, if you must): Scammers can provide a fake verification like a phone number. These numbers only go to a voice recording/message when dialed. Be smarter and call your local sheriff’s station.
• Never trust right away: Don’t ever send money, give out personal details, and bank information to any caller.

In worst case scenarios where you feel like you’ve been a victim of these LA scam calls, call the LA Crime Stoppers at 800-222-8477. Your calls will be anonymous, and they will be able to help you out.