Sheriff Warns About Latest Phone Scam

The Tulare County Sheriff’s Office would like to warn everyone about the latest phone scam.

On Thursday, a Porterville woman was contacted by phone by someone who claimed to be a member of the Tulare County Sheriff’s Office. He requested bail money for a relative of the victim.

The suspect directed the woman to obtain Apple iTunes gift cards in lieu of bail.

The woman realized it was a scam, no money was exchanged and she contacted the Sheriff’s Office.

Please be advised that the Tulare County Sheriff’s Office does not arrange for bail payments, does not call people on the telephone asking for bail money and does not request Apple iTunes gift cards in lieu of bail.

If you should happen to receive one of these phone calls, follow this advice:

• Say “No thank you” and hang up the phone.
• Do not send them money.
• Do not give them your personal information.
• If you become a victim, contact law enforcement.

Report crimes and suspicious activity to the Tulare County Sheriff’s Office at (559) 733-6218 or anonymously through our TipNow Program at (559) 725-4194 or tcso@tipnow.com.