City Times Staff

WISCONSIN RAPIDS — Wood Co. Sheriff Thomas Reichert has issued a statement regarding a recent string of scam phone calls in the area.

According to a news release, residents have reported receiving multiple scam phone calls claiming to be from the Wood Co. Sherrif’s Department. The person had informed the recipient of the call that they had missed jury duty, or had outstanding warrants, and the failure to pay these fines over the phone would result in their arrest. The caller ID reflected the real number of the Wood Co. Sheriff’s Department in the scam.

Wood County Sheriff Thomas Reichert. (Contributed Photo)

“Other variations of this scam will utilize well-known local law firms or actual debt-recovery agencies,” said Reichert in a statement to the press. “The caller ID spoof is done by utilizing software or an application that enables the caller to change what the outgoing number looks like on a caller ID.”

Reichert has emphasized that no member of law enforcement will demand money over the phone. Extreme caution is encouraged when anyone emits pressure for payment of any kind over the phone, especially in forms of requesting payment by money orders or gift cards.

“These forms of payment are anonymous and nearly impossible to track,” said Reichert. “This is why they are the preferred method of payment for scammers. The callers will often resort to threats of fines, arrest, or even physical harm in attempt to coerce and intimidate you into paying them.”

Any calls received in this manner should respond by hanging up immediately, and report it to local law enforcement. You can do so by calling 715-421-8700. Reichert has also encouraged residents to report scam calls to the Federal trade Commission, who work internationally and domestically to arrest scammers for calls such as these. You can visit their website at http://consumer.ftc.gov.