Scam Alert in Dare County: Beware of Phony Calls from Fraudsters

Scam Alert in Dare County: Stay Alert and Protect Yourself

For residents of Dare County, a heads-up from the local sheriff’s office is in order! Recently, there have been reports of scam phone calls making the rounds, and the Dare County Sheriff’s Office is stepping in to spread awareness and keep everyone safe.

What’s Happening?

It seems that certain individuals are being targeted by scammers who are using a frightening tactic. The scammers pose as officials from the sheriff’s office and claim that the victim has missed court dates related to jury duty or other legal issues. If you think this sounds alarming, you’re right! The scammers try to create a sense of urgency, pressuring you to act quickly.

How Do They Operate?

Here’s where it gets tricky. These scammers will often tell you that you need to “purge” yourself of any legal troubles by paying a certain amount of money. They may instruct you to visit the sheriff’s office but with a twist: they advise you not to hang up the phone during the process. This can put you in a very vulnerable situation. While you’re on the line, they will direct you to purchase money cards and send the reference numbers directly to them, effectively leaving you out of pocket and into a scam!

What to Do?

So, what should you do if you receive one of these calls? First and foremost, remember that the Dare County Sheriff’s Office will never call you regarding missed jury duty or other court-related matters asking for money. If you find yourself on the receiving end of one of these suspicious phone calls, hang up immediately!

For your safety, the sheriff’s office urges everyone to be vigilant. They encourage residents who notice suspicious activity or calls like this to report them. You can do so by contacting the Dare County Sheriff’s Office directly at 252-475-5980 or reach out to the sheriff on his cell phone at 252-216-9898. Always trust your instincts; if something feels off, it probably is!

Exciting Events Coming Up!

13th annual pumpkin patch. This event will take place every Saturday throughout October and promises a wonderful experience for families and those looking to enjoy the autumn season!

Bringing the Community Together

The pumpkin patch is a delightful opportunity for residents and visitors alike to embrace the spirit of fall. Kids can enjoy picking their own pumpkins, and families can take part in numerous activities that create lasting memories. It’s the perfect time to gather the family and head out for some fresh air, laughter, and seasonal fun!

Honoring Our Environment

This month also brings another exciting initiative! The Dare Soil & Water Conservation District will present its inaugural Salt Marsh Award. This award aims to recognize outstanding efforts in the preservation and enhancement of our beautiful coastal ecosystems, such as salt marshes. It’s a fantastic way to highlight the importance of our local environment and encourage community involvement in conservation efforts.

Final Thoughts

Dare County, you have a lot to be proud of and look forward to this fall! However, remember to stay alert when it comes to those pesky phone scams and keep an eye out for fun activities like the pumpkin patch. Together, our community can stay informed and enjoy the best that this wonderful county has to offer!