Scam alert: New circulating scam on Facebook

The Yuma County Sheriff’s Office has received numerous calls to a scam occurring via Facebook messenger where victims are receiving messages from a suspect using the name “Leon” and Sheriff Wilmot’s profile picture, officers say.

The YCSO would like to remind the community that YCSO would never contact you via phone, messenger, or text to offer or request money from you.

Below is a list of scams that have been reported in Yuma County in the past.

Jury duty scam: This time the call is supposedly from someone at the courthouse who claims you failed to report for jury duty and a warrant has been issued for your arrest. You’re then offered a choice to either pay for the warrant or have an officer sent over to arrest you. The fraudsters will typically demand that the money be paid by money transfer or by loading a prepaid card. They have been known to use actual names of local Officers and Judges in the scam to make it seem legitimate. Scammers have gone as far as using devices that allow them to display local law enforcement phone numbers on your caller ID.

Lottery scam: While the other scams prey on fear and concern, this one aims to convince you that you’ve won money in a foreign lottery. Never mind that you can’t recall ever entering one. The call will come from someone who sounds official. They’ll ask for a payment up-front for supposed taxes and fees so you can collect your winnings.

Utility scam: This is another fear-based scam that involves convincing you that the utility company is about to cut off service due to unpaid bills. The scammers will naturally want the money sent to them by money transfer or a prepaid card.

If you believe you have been a victim, please contact your local law enforcement agency.