Sumter County Sheriff’s Office warns residents of Verizon phone scam

A recent phone scam has the Sumter County Sheriff’s Office urging residents to be cautious when giving out their personal information.

Mark Bordeaux, public information officer for the sheriff’s office, shared on Friday that area residents have received phone calls from the number (803) 217-5585, claiming to be Verizon. Once answered, a recorded message plays that refers to an account issue or addition of a new device and directs listeners to press 2.

Verizon has been notified of the calls, and the sheriff’s office ask residents to notify Verizon if they receive a suspicious call from someone purporting to represent them.

Bordeaux reminds the public to never give out personal information to those who have contacted them by phone, email or text as they may obtain it to deceive them.

In early January, deputies warned the public of phone calls from someone claiming to be “Lt. Stewart” from the sheriff’s office. The caller claimed the victim had an outstanding warrant and demanded payments.