Cayuga County Residents Warned of Ongoing Phone and Email Scam

The Cayuga County Sheriff’s Office is alerting the community about a phone and email scam in which individuals impersonate law enforcement officers in an attempt to extort money. Recent reports indicate that callers have been posing as members of the Sheriff’s Office, threatening residents with fake arrest warrants for missed court dates and demanding payment for alleged debts.

According to the Sheriff’s Office, the scammers often direct potential victims to make payments through Venmo after sending fraudulent emails or invoices. The phone numbers displayed on caller ID may appear to be legitimate, as the scammers utilize technology to spoof official numbers.

Authorities urge residents not to engage with these calls, emails, or payment requests. If contacted, residents are advised to hang up immediately and avoid clicking on any embedded links in suspicious emails.

If you suspect you have been targeted or have fallen victim to this scam, contact your local law enforcement agency. Cayuga County residents can call the Sheriff’s Office at 315-253-1222 (press 0 when prompted) or email Sheriff@cayugacounty.us for assistance.

Officials remind the public that law enforcement agencies do not collect debts or demand payments over the phone or through email.