The Guilford County Sheriff’s Office (GCSO) urges residents not to become a victim of scams this holiday season. Scammers tend to get more creative and aggressive during this time. It is important to educate and protect yourself by understanding common types of scams.
The safest option for making payments is online through secure websites. If you need to mail a payment, walk it directly into the post office rather than using your home mailbox or a collection box.
Scammers are pretending to be law enforcement officers and demanding residents to pay fines to avoid arrest. The GCSO will never call and demand payment over the phone.
Verify the legitimacy of any charity before donating. Scammers are eager to take advantage of the increased generosity during the holidays.
Porch pirates are individuals who steal packages delivered to homes or businesses. Homeowners are encouraged to invest in porch cameras and register with the GCSO Fusus camera registry program at ConnectGuilfordCounty.org to assist in solving neighborhood crime.
During the holidays, scammers may complete an unsolicited service on your property and then demand payment upon completion. These scammers often speak quickly and use an authoritative tone to put pressure on the resident so he or she will agree to send money without question.
For more details on common scams and how to protect yourself, please visit GuilfordCountyNC.gov/Anti-Scam.
Tips to Avoid Scams:
- Do not send money to anyone claiming to be from the GCSO.
- Verify any claims by calling the GCSO directly at 336-641-3694.
- Report scam attempts with the GCSO or your local law enforcement agency.
- Ignore unknown numbers. Don't answer or return calls from numbers you do not recognize.
- If you answer a suspicious call, hang up immediately without engaging.
- Never press buttons or provide personal information to unsolicited callers.
- Do not click on links from unknown numbers or emails.