Pennsylvania State Police in Chambersburg are warning residents about an increase in telephone scams involving criminals impersonating local law enforcement officers and demanding cryptocurrency payments to avoid arrest.
In a news release issued Thursday, November 5, state police said they have received a growing number of reports over the past several weeks involving scammers who falsely identify themselves as members of the Franklin County Sheriff’s Office.
According to investigators, the scam typically begins with a telephone call from someone claiming to be a lieutenant with the Sheriff’s Office. The caller tells the intended victim that an active arrest warrant has been issued for failing to appear for jury duty.
The scammer then attempts to frighten the individual into making an immediate payment using Bitcoin or another form of cryptocurrency, claiming the payment is necessary to avoid being arrested.
State police say the calls are fraudulent and are urging Franklin County residents to remain vigilant.
Authorities advise anyone receiving such a call to hang up immediately and avoid calling the number back.
Residents who want to verify whether a claim is legitimate should contact their local law enforcement agency directly using a verified telephone number obtained from an official website or another trusted source.
Police emphasized that legitimate law enforcement agencies and government officials will never demand payment over the telephone or through text messages to resolve an arrest warrant or prevent someone from being taken into custody.
Additionally, law enforcement officers will never instruct individuals to make payments using Bitcoin, other cryptocurrencies, prepaid gift cards or third-party payment applications.
The warning comes as state police continue receiving reports of the scam throughout the Franklin County area. Investigators have not disclosed how many residents have been contacted or whether any victims have suffered financial losses.
State police are encouraging residents to be particularly cautious when receiving unexpected calls involving threats of arrest, outstanding warrants or demands for immediate payment.
Anyone contacted by someone claiming to represent law enforcement should independently verify the caller’s identity before providing personal information or making any financial transactions.
The Pennsylvania State Police Chambersburg Station is reminding the public that a demand for cryptocurrency or gift card payments to avoid arrest is a clear warning sign of a scam.
Additional information about the Pennsylvania State Police is available at psp.pa.gov
