JEFFERSON COUNTY — Sheriff’s departments across the region are warning residents about another phone scam. This time the callers are saying they’re with the local sheriff’s office and are asking for money donations.

(Credit: fordzolo)
(Credit: fordzolo)

Jefferson County Sheriff Travis Allen warns that you should not give any information to these callers as this is a scam. Allen reports the number that has been showing up on caller ID is 309-329-5290. He says when deputies tried to call the number back it says it does not accept calls.

The Illinois Sheriffs’ Association is also warning all Illinois county residents of a scam using the name of the Illinois Sheriffs’ Association in their requests for donations. The Illinois Sheriffs’ Association says it never solicits by phone but does conduct a direct mail campaign throughout the state of Illinois endorsed by the individual Sheriffs across Illinois.

The Sheriff’s Association says telemarketing fraud costs billions of dollars each year. Phone solicitors who want you to “act immediately” or are offering a “too good to be true” opportunity are most likely fraudulent. Remember that if you have any doubts, or are highly pressured – Just Hang Up.