Scam Alert

OC Sheriffs warn about phishing scam

The Orange County Sheriff’s Department is warning the community about a phishing scam in which cybercriminals send a text message with a malicious link to an intended victim’s phone to try and obtain personal data.

The text message may contain language that makes the targeted victim believe they have a package pending or waiting for them in an attempt to get them to click on the link and share personal information.

These cybercriminals “can steal your identity, empty your bank account, or install malware in your phone,” the Orange County Sheriff ’s Department said in a Facebook post.

Don’t click the link and don’t provide personal information that could identify you. Avoiding Scams—Tips from the U.S. Senate Special Committee on Aging

• Con artists force you to make decisions fast and may threatenyou.

• Con artists disguise their real numbers, using fake caller IDs.

• Con artists sometimes pretend to be the government (e.g.IRS).

•Con artists try to get ou to provide them personal information, such as your Social Security number or account numbers.

•Before giving out your credit card number or money, ask a friend or family member about it.

• Beware of offers of free travel.

If you receive a suspicious call, hang up and call the U.S. Senate Special Committee on Aging’s Fraud Hotline at 1-855-303-9470.