SCAM ALERT: Fake Montgomery County Sheriff's Office Calls Targeting Residents

Montgomery County residents are being warned about a sophisticated phone scam where callers impersonate the Montgomery County Sheriff's Office to extort money and personal information.

Several residents across the county have reported receiving calls from individuals claiming to be Sheriff's Office deputies. The scammers tell victims they have a missed court appearance and demand they immediately "move to a secure location" with pen and paper to discuss the matter further.

The scam uses caller ID spoofing to display the legitimate Sheriff's Office number: (610) 278-3331. When residents call this number back, they hear a recording warning about phone scams—indicating this fraudulent activity has become prevalent enough that the Sheriff's Office has implemented an automated warning system.

Red flags to watch for:

• Demands to move to a "secure location"

• Requests for immediate payment or personal information

• Threats of arrest for missed court appearances

• High-pressure tactics to act quickly

How to protect yourself:

Law enforcement agencies will never demand payment over the phone or ask you to isolate yourself to discuss legal matters. If you receive such a call, hang up immediately and contact the Montgomery County Sheriff's Office directly at (610) 278-3331 to verify any claims.

Anyone who believes they have been targeted by this scam should report it to local law enforcement and the Federal Trade Commission at reportfraud.ftc.gov.