Fond du Lac County Sheriff’s Office reports scams against the elderly on the rise in the county

The Fond du Lac County Sheriff’s Office says the county has been experiencing an increase in scam complaints focused on elderly people.

They say The scammers contact victims by telephone and ask them to pay “taxes” on prize winnings in the form of gift cards, cash or money orders. Some scammers are even asking for cash to be left in victims mailboxes for pickup.

The department says another scam sees victims contacted by people impersonating an officer or deputy and asking for money to be paid to get a loved one out of jail or to pay for warrants.

The sheriff’s office says If you feel you are being contacted by a scammer, to not share any personal information with them. They say to then contact a trusted friend or family member, your local bank or law enforcement to discuss the details of the potential scam. Once you have determined it is for sure a scam, then block the scammers phone number to prevent further contact.

Scammers impersonating law enforcement should be reported to the Sheriff’s Office non-emergency number at 920-929-3390.