New Scam Targets Union County Business Owners, Sheriff’s Office Warns

UNION COUNTY, Ga. — The Union County Sheriff’s Office is warning business owners and managers about a new scam involving fraudulent phone calls or text messages from individuals posing as sheriff’s deputies.

According to a social media post from the sheriff’s office, scammers are contacting business owners, claiming to be from the Union County Sheriff’s Office and using the name of a supposed lieutenant. The scammers allege that a complaint has been filed regarding an altercation at the business and that a warrant has been issued against the owner or manager. They then instruct victims to deposit thousands of dollars at locations such as gas station ATMs or bitcoin machines to “clear” the warrant.

The sheriff’s office emphasized that it does not contact individuals via phone or text to inform them of outstanding warrants or solicit payments. Legitimate warrant payments are only accepted as bond or bail at the Union County Jail.

To avoid falling victim to the scam, the sheriff’s office advises:

• If you receive a suspicious call or text claiming to be from the sheriff’s office, inform the caller that you will hang up and contact the sheriff’s office directly at (706) 439-6066 to verify their identity.

• Do not call back the number that contacted you, as scammers may use official-sounding voicemails or greetings to deceive victims.

• Be cautious of callers who use threats or intimidation to keep you on the phone. Legitimate deputies will not object if you wish to verify their identity by calling the sheriff’s office directly.

The sheriff’s office also warned against depositing money into ATMs or bitcoin machines, wiring funds, purchasing gift cards, or clicking on suspicious links. Anyone unsure about the legitimacy of a communication is urged to contact the sheriff’s office immediately at (706) 439-6066 for assistance.