Medford Resident Reports Losing Thousands Of Dollars To Phone Scam

MEDFORD, MA — A resident lost $7,500 after falling victim to a scam involving someone pretending to be a member of the Middlesex Sheriff’s Office.

The person reported receiving a call and text on Monday evening from a scammer falsely posing as a member of the Middlesex Sheriff’s Office. According to officials, the scammer told the resident there was a warrant out for their arrest for failing to appear for jury duty and allegedly texted the victim a copy of a warrant before directing them to pay a fine using bitcoin.

“These government impersonation scams are insidious,” Middlesex Sheriff Peter J. Koutoujian said. “These perpetrators are using the fear of arrest to convince residents to pay thousands of dollars to avoid incarceration. That’s why it’s imperative we continue efforts alongside our law enforcement partners, councils on aging and others to spread the word about these scams.”

The Middlesex Sheriff’s Office and Medford Police Department are reminding residents that legitimate law enforcement agencies will never threaten someone with arrest or demand payment of a fine or fee over the phone. Massachusetts government agencies also do not accept bitcoin, other cryptocurrency, or gold as payment for outstanding fines or fees.

“Billions of dollars are lost every year, and unfortunately, scammers often prey on some of the most vulnerable members of our community,” Medford Police Chief Jack Buckley said. “We have a responsibility to continue educating our residents and reminding them that legitimate law enforcement agencies will never demand payment over the phone. If something doesn't feel right, hang up and call the agency directly.”

Anyone who receives a similar call is encouraged to hang up immediately and contact the department the caller claims to represent using its main phone number.

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