The Fort Benning Garrison warned the military community about a sophisticated phone scam targeting Fort Benning. According to their Facebook page the callers are convincing, professional, and use “official” language to create panic. Please read the details below to ensure you don’t fall victim.
How the Scam WorksA caller poses as a Harris County Deputy Sheriff (or local law enforcement). To build credibility, they may:
-Use your full name and home address.
-Claim you missed Jury Duty on a specific date.
-Provide fake “Bench Warrant” or “Summons” numbers.
-Tell you the call is being recorded for “official purposes.”
-Claim a “Certified Letter” was signed for at your address.
The “Hook”They will tell you to drive to the Sheriff’s Office immediately to verify your signature. HOWEVER, while you are in your car, they will claim you must pay a “fine” (often $1,500 – $3,000) over the phone to “place a hold on the warrant” so you aren’t arrested on the way there.
THE TRUTHLaw Enforcement will NEVER call you to demand payment of a fine over the phone to avoid arrest.
Warrants are not “held” via credit card, gift card, or wire transfer payments.
Real deputies will never insist you stay on a continuous phone call while you drive to the station.
What To Do If You Get This CallHANG UP. Do not provide any financial or personal information.
VERIFY. If you are concerned, call the Harris County Sheriff’s Office or your local law enforcement directly using a verified number from their official website.
REPORT. If you are a Service Member, notify your chain of command or the Military Police if you shared sensitive information.
Remember: If someone demands immediate payment over the phone to “clear a warrant,” it is 100% a scam.
