ALLEN COUNTY, Ohio — Allen County officials are warning residents about an increase in scam activity targeting members of the community and urging the public to remain vigilant.
Authorities say scammers are increasingly requesting payment through Bitcoin, gift cards or other unconventional methods. Officials stress these requests are scams.
Residents are reminded that if they have an outstanding warrant, law enforcement will serve it in person. Authorities will never request payment over the phone in lieu of arrest or offer the option to “pay a fee instead of jail time.”
Officials also caution that scammers may spoof legitimate phone numbers. Calls that appear to come from the Allen County Sheriff’s Office non-emergency line will display 419-227-3535, but residents are encouraged hang up and verify suspicious calls directly with the office.
Law enforcement will never instruct individuals to avoid contacting an attorney, refrain from speaking with family members or remain on the phone while purchasing Bitcoin or gift cards.
Officials urge residents to protect their personal information and finances and to contact the Allen County Sheriff’s Office directly if they receive any questionable communication claiming to be from law enforcement.
Residents are also encouraged to share this information with family, friends and neighbors of all ages to help prevent further scams.
