San Diego Sheriff's Office warns of scams impersonating deputies

SAN DIEGO (FOX 5/KUSI) -- Authorities are warning people not to fall for scams from callers claiming to be with the San Diego Sheriff's Office.

SDSO posted a reminder to the public on social media, warning people that if you get a call from someone claiming to be a sheriff's deputy demanding money or threatening you, you should hang up immediately.

According to SDSO, scammers will often use a real employee's name or the telephone number of the sheriff's department, which can easily be found online.

They may also use Caller ID "spoofing" to make it seem as if the call is coming from a sheriff's station, substation, jail or court offices.

People may fall victim to a scam if they end up giving the caller their personal information or money after being threatened with lawsuits, jail time or being arrested. However, these are common tactics that scam callers use to intimidate their victims, according to authorities.

The following are "Red Flags" that a call may be a scam, according to the SDSO's website:

• No SDSO employee will ever contact you by phone to demand money, gift cards or other form of payment.
• Regarding calls threatening you with an outstanding warrant: Outstanding warrants cannot be resolved over the phone and can only be cleared through the court.
• Confirm jury service by visiting the San Diego Superior Court's online juror portal. Alternatively, you may call (619) 844-2800.

More tips about how to look out for scams can be found on the San Diego County Sheriff's Office's website.