Hartford, Ala. (WDNews) — The is warning residents about a scam circulating in the area involving callers pretending to be federal agents or government officials.
According to police, scammers are contacting people by phone while claiming to be with agencies such as the FBI, Inspector General’s Office or other government departments. The callers reportedly tell victims their Social Security number or financial information has been connected to money laundering or another criminal investigation.
Investigators said the scammers often attempt to create fear and urgency in an effort to pressure victims into acting quickly without verifying the claims.
Police recently responded to a case involving a local victim who was instructed to go to Dollar General, purchase gift cards and read the numbers on the back of the cards over the phone.
Authorities stressed that no legitimate government agency, including the FBI, Social Security Administration or Inspector General’s Office, will ever demand payment through gift cards or ask someone to provide gift card numbers to “secure” money or avoid arrest.
Officials also warned residents about “spoofing,” a tactic scammers use to make phone numbers appear local or resemble legitimate businesses or agencies on caller ID.
Police said residents should not assume a caller is legitimate simply because the phone number looks familiar or local.
According to the Hartford Police Department, legitimate government investigations are typically handled through official mail notifications or direct in-person contact from verified law enforcement officers or government representatives with proper credentials.
The department encourages residents to never purchase gift cards for someone demanding payment over the phone, never provide gift card numbers or PINs to strangers and to verify suspicious claims before taking any action.
“If something doesn’t feel right, trust your instincts and verify before acting,” the department stated.
Anyone who believes they may be dealing with a scam is encouraged to contact the Hartford Police Department at 334-588-3369 or dispatch/non-emergency at 334-588-2222.
