Sheriff Says Don't Fall Victim To Gift Card Scams

Ripley County Sheriff Jeff Cumberworth says local citizens have reported the scam phone calls.

(Ripley County, Ind.) - The Ripley County Sheriff is warning citizens about a phone scam.

Sheriff Jeff Cumberworth says citizens have reported receiving calls from scammers asking would-be victims to make payments using gift cards.

“Please keep in mind that governments, retailers and service providers DO NOT want gift cards as payment. If someone is asking for payment via gift card, it’s a scam. Scammers like gift cards because they are transferable around the globe and nearly impossible to trace. As soon as victims give the card number and PIN, the scammers have their money,” said Cumberworth.

Phone numbers showing up on caller ID also cannot be relied upon as being accurate. Modern technology allows telemarketers and others to use “spoof” numbers that appear on caller ID but are not the actual number of the caller.

“Spoof” numbers can make it impossible for law enforcement to find the perpetrators, he adds.

“Do not give personal information over the phone or in emails. This is especially important if you did not initiate the request for service. If someone asks you to enter ANY transaction involving a gift card, hang up,” the sheriff advises.