Phone scams
Imagine this scenario: you receive a call from someone asking for money. They possess some of your personal information and show persistent determination, making their pitch compelling.
In such a situation, it’s important to remember that THIS IS A SCAM! Hang up immediately!
Scam callers can be incredibly convincing and, at times, even aggressive. They have done some homework and may know pieces of your personal information that they will use to convince you they are real.
Red flags to watch out for:
- Calls from unknown numbers.
- Request for payment via gift card, cryptocurrency, wire money, or other unusual payment methods.
- Requests for your bank account information.
- Strangers asking you to send them a photo of your ID.
- People claiming to be law enforcement calling about an outstanding warrant for failure to appear for jury duty.
- Callers using real phone numbers or names of local law enforcement people to sound legitimate.
- Threats of arrest if you do not send money.
Remember, law enforcement, including the Washington County Sheriff's Office, will NEVER ask for payment over the phone.
If you receive such a call or any other suspicious call asking for payment, hang up and call their non-emergency dispatch: 503-629-0111. Stay alert to help protect yourself and your community from scams.
Scam PSA: Watch this eye-opening video for valuable insights on handling scam calls and protecting yourself against potential scams. Together, let's spread this important message and empower others to prevent falling victim to these deceptive practices.
Text message scams
Overdue traffic tickets
You may receive an unsolicited text claiming to be from your state’s DMV. The text warns of an “overdue traffic ticket” and demands immediate payment via a link.
These messages often threaten to suspend your license, registration, or report you to a “DMV violation database,” and may add a hefty 35% “service fee”. Some even warn of criminal prosecution or credit damage—but it’s all a scam, designed to steal your money or personal information.
How to protect yourself:
- Don’t click links or respond. Scammers thrive on creating a sense of urgency.
- Verify through official sources. If you’re concerned, contact your DMV or toll agency using a number or website you know is legitimate—not the one provided in the text.
- Report and delete the scam. Use your phone’s “report junk” feature, forward the message to 7726 (SPAM), and delete it.
This is not an isolated issue. Federal Trade Commission data shows that text-based scams—sometimes called “smishing”—have surged.
Many victims lose significant funds or suffer identity theft, often without realizing they’ve been targeted. The FBI and numerous state agencies are urging the public to stay alert.