The Adams County Sheriff’s Office has alerted local residents to a recent surge in phone scams that use two distinct ruses to extract money and sensitive information. In one variation, callers falsely identify themselves as U.S. Marshals, claim the recipient has an outstanding bench warrant, and demand immediate payment. In the other, callers claim the recipient has won a Publisher’s Clearing House prize but must pay “taxes” or provide personal data to collect the supposed winnings.

The sheriff’s office made the advisory public through a local news bulletin, aiming to head off potential financial harm and confusion among community members. Authorities emphasized that legitimate law enforcement agencies do not call residents to notify them about bench warrants or demand cash payments over the phone. Residents were explicitly warned not to share personal information or send money in response to such calls.

These scams exploit fear and the lure of unexpected prizes to pressure recipients into making impulsive decisions. For households across Adams County—particularly seniors and others who may be unfamiliar with common scam tactics—the schemes present a clear risk of monetary loss and identity theft. Even calls that appear to reference real programs or federal authorities can be sophisticated attempts to create urgency and credibility.

Local implications extend beyond individual victims. Scams erode trust in legitimate communications from institutions and can divert time and resources from residents and local agencies as people seek to verify claims. Community leaders and law enforcement officials say awareness is a critical defense: recognizing common red flags, such as requests for immediate payment, demands for gift cards or wire transfers, and unsolicited requests for Social Security numbers or bank details, can prevent losses.

The sheriff’s office bulletin aims to build that awareness by clarifying two simple points for Adams County residents: law enforcement will not call to demand payment for warrants, and residents should not provide personal information or send money to unknown callers. Those who receive suspicious calls are encouraged to treat them skeptically and protect their financial and personal data.

As scammers continue to adopt new tactics, the sheriff’s alert serves as a timely reminder that vigilance and verification remain the strongest protections. Local residents who are uncertain about a call or believe they may have been targeted should retain any information from the call and consult trusted family members or legal advisors before responding.