Phone Scam Making Rounds in Albany County-What To Know

The Albany County Sheriff’s Office is warning the community about a phone scam that’s been making the rounds, and we must help protect older adults, who are often the targets of these schemes.

Here’s what’s happening: people across the county have been getting calls from someone claiming to be with the sheriff’s office. The caller says some fines need to be paid right away to avoid being arrested. The number shows up with no caller ID, adding to the confusion and urgency.

Let’s be clear, the real sheriff’s office will never call and demand money or threaten arrest to get you to pay a fine. That’s simply not how they operate.

If you or someone you care about gets this kind of call, the best thing to do is hang up. Then, call the Albany County Sheriff’s Office directly to check things out for yourself. Do not click any links or follow instructions from the scammer.

It’s also a good time to check in with elderly family members, friends, or neighbors. Make sure they know about this scam and remind them that no law enforcement agency will ever ask for money over the phone.

If you’ve already sent money or have questions, don’t hesitate to call the sheriff’s non-emergency line at (518) 765-2351.