FORT BEND COUNTY – The Fort Bend County Sheriff’s Office (FBCSO) is warning residents about a scam involving fake bench warrant notifications.
Scammers are targeting people through phone calls, texts, and emails, claiming there’s a bench warrant out for their arrest and demanding immediate payment to resolve the issue.
Recommended Videos
SUGGESTED: New Houston doggy daycare business loses more than $250K in growing email alteration scam
How the scam operates
Scammers contact potential victims, impersonating law enforcement officers to lend credibility to their claims.
Authorities say they often use spoofed phone numbers and reference real names and email addresses of FBCSO employees. Victims are pressured to make payments using untraceable methods such as prepaid cards or wire transfers.
‘LOOKING FOR TROUBLE:’ Men on horseback allegedly shoot at DoorDash driver in Fort Bend County
Law enforcement procedures
FBCSO emphasizes that law enforcement agencies do not contact individuals to demand payment over the phone.
Residents are encouraged to remain cautious and to verify any suspicious communications by directly contacting their local police department or court.
WANTED: Houston area coach accused of keeping $3,500 check meant for Special Olympics organization
Protecting against scams
To avoid falling victim to this scam, authorities say don’t provide personal or financial information to unknown callers.
If someone claims to represent law enforcement and demands payment, you should hang up and verify the information independently.
The Sheriff’s Office urges anyone who believes they have been targeted by this scam to report it immediately.