Scammers who hope to profit off of unsuspecting residents in Doña Ana County are now using phone numbers with recorded messages saying callers have reached the Doña Ana County Sheriff’s Department.
The number that is now circulating is (575) 652-6292, which is not a legitimate number to any extension at the Doña Ana County Sheriff’s Department. A recording asks callers to leave a number, and are then contacted with instructions on how to clear up a warrant using a pre-paid check card.
The sheriff’s department has never – nor will it ever – contact anyone by phone to clear up a warrant. Additionally, fines can only be paid through the magistrate or district court system – never through a prepaid check card to someone over the phone.
Investigators say several people have made reports this week after falling victim to the phone scam. Thieves historically have also preyed on victims using false information regarding unpaid taxes.
The New Mexico Attorney General’s office recently highlighted the top phone scams circulating throughout the state as part of Consumer Protection Week, which included fraudulent phone calls attempting to collect on a warrant or delinquent taxes.
Investigators warn residents to never give out any personal information such as full name, date of birth, Social Security number, address, or any financial information such as credit/debit card numbers, PINs or bank account numbers.
Information from Dona Ana County