AUSTIN CO. SHERIFF’S OFFICE WARNS OF SCAMS

  

The Austin County Sheriff’s Office is cautioning residents about recent scam attempts regarding outstanding fees owed.

The sheriff’s office says it has received reports of texts, emails and phone calls coming from people posing as deputies and using current deputies’ names.  The scammers tell the victims they need to resolve tickets or warrants and ask for payment by way of cash cards or online transfers.

The sheriff’s office says these communications are not legitimate, as it will never contact residents and ask for money.

Additionally, the sheriff’s office reports that neighboring counties have had citizens fall victim to scams related to Paycheck Protection Program (PPP) loans.  

In these instances, the scammers have sent documents that look like federal court records, with the names of the victims typed in.  According to officials, the scammers appear to be targeting people using a list published by the federal government of PPP loan recipients. 

The sheriff’s office says federal courts and agents will never reach out to people via text or email and ask for money. 

Anyone with questions or concerns about the scam attempts is asked to contact the Austin County Sheriff’s Office at 979-865-3111.