The Russell County Sheriff’s Office is warning residents about a widespread telephone scam and another involving EBT cards.
According to a statement from the sheriff’s office, “Fraudsters pose as officers, deputies, or bondsmen, demanding immediate money via payment apps or gift cards for fake bonds, fees, or ankle monitors.”
That statement went on to say the fraudsters claim that if money is sent to them directly, they can speed up the process of having a loved one released from jail.
The fraudsters most often pretend to be from the Virginia Peninsula Regional Jail.
“VPRJ does not solicit or accept payments over the phone for any release options or bond-related matter—under any circumstance,” Superintendent Colonel Roy Witham stated. “If friends or family of persons committed to VPRJ have questions regarding bond amounts or wish to verify a booking status, they are encouraged to contact the VPRJ Booking desk directly.”
Individuals are urged not to send money or share personal information with unknown callers, and to report suspicious callers to local law enforcement.
As for the EBT scam, fraudsters are sending automated phone calls, text messages, or emails pretending to be state agencies or EBT customer service demanding your card number or PIN, or payment when you click on a link in a text message.
“Be smart, don’t fall for scams!” the statement said.
