WATONGA – The Blaine County Sheriff’s Office says many locals are falling victim to scams and thefts, and are warning others to avoid the same fate.
In a Facebook post Tuesday, the office said it has become aware of “several” scams recently with some locals losing money to the fraudsters. Sheriff Travis Daugherty has also warned against such scams during Blaine County commissioner meetings.
He said some phone scams are quite elaborate and the caller sometimes has a lot of personal information about his target, building credibility with the information before asking for more.
“Don’t ever let someone get you to login to any of your accounts while on the phone with them,” the post says. “Don’t ever give them the last four of your social security number and last but not least, the IRS is not issuing a warrant for your arrest.” The office said it is “extremely tired of these people that have scammed so many into believing they owe something but don’t.” It also warned against fake online marketplace listings and advised residents not to send money via Cash App without receiving the items first.
According to the Federal Trade Commission, Americans can add their numbers to the National Do Not Call Registry online or by calling 1-888-382-1222. “If you still receive telemarketing calls after registering,” the FTC says, “there’s a good chance that the calls are scams.” You can report telephone scams to the FTC online at ReportFraud.ftc.gov, or by calling 1-877-382-4357.
Unfortunately, as the sheriff’s office pointed out, there’s often not much that federal or local law enforcement can do to help residents recover money after falling victim to a scam.
‘It would alarm you’
The post says there has been a rash of stolen firearms throughout the county. “If we disclosed how many firearms that were stolen just in Blaine County alone, it would alarm you!” the office said.
The office advises residents to remove weapons from their vehicles and lock their doors. And if a gun is stolen, it helps the investigation if the owner can provide the serial number on the gun.
“When we as citizens (don’t) keep our firearms safe and secure, we are literally handing bad guys guns that could ultimately result in the difference between life and death to innocent people,” the post says. “The mental health crisis that affects our nation is not good and when guns become readily available by a simple break of a window or opening of a car door, it could cost the ultimate price.
“We just ask that you take these things into consideration and stand ready to protect your rights as a responsible gun owner,” the office said.