Montco Authorities Issue Scam Alert; Callers Pretend To Be Cops

NORRISTOWN, PA — Authorities are warning the public about the latest scam to hit the region, a variation on a common scheme where suspects pretend to be law enforcement and demand money.

Local scammers claim they are Montgomery County Sheriff's Deputies and usually tell residents they owe money to the IRS or that there is a warrant for their arrest for some fictional crime. They then demand payments from the victim via Green Dot Money Pak prepaid cards.

The number that calls is 610-589-0600, authorities said.

To make matters even worse, a phone recording reached when you call that number claims that it is the Montgomery County Sheriff's Office. The recording closely resembles the real Sheriff's Office voicemail, officials said. Moreover, suspects also use official titles and ranks when calling.

Authorities are most worried about vulnerable populations like the elderly.

“The Sheriff’s Office never handles money and doesn’t call residents unless a warrant has been issued,” Sheriff Sean P. Kilkenny said in a statement. “Never give out your personal information unless you initiated the call, or it’s someone you know.”

Scam calls can be reported to local police or the Montgomery County Detectives Bureau at 610-278-3368.

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