March 29, 2024
Local News | Putnam County Record


Local News

Slamming down the scam

Illinois sheriffs warn residents of phone scam

Per the Illinois Sheriffs’ Association (ISA), area residents are encouraged to steer clear of phone scammers falsely claiming to be part of the Illinois Sheriffs’ Association.

According to a press release, there is currently a fraudulent phone campaign underway in area counties that uses the ISA in their solicitation, claiming of opportunities “too good to be true” and asking individuals to “act immediately.” The press release emphasized the ISA never solicits by phone but does conduct a direct email campaign throughout the state endorsed by individual sheriffs’ offices.

The release states: “Telemarketing fraud costs billions of dollars each year, and if you have any doubts or feel highly pressured by the caller, just hang up.”

All residents have the right to ask the following information from a caller soliciting funds:

• The name, address and phone number of the organization for which they are soliciting.

• The name, address and phone number of the telemarketing firm.

• The percentage of every dollar paid to the telemarketing firm.

• Insist on something in writing prior to making a pledge or commitment.

“If you cannot get the answers to these questions do not hesitate to hang up the phone. After all, it’s your money.”

Although there are some legitimate organizations that use telemarketers for their fundraising efforts, the sheriffs of Illinois — through the ISA — are adamantly opposed to police groups and associations using telemarketing to promote monetary donations.

Should you receive a call from someone saying they represent your local sheriff or the ISA and are asking for donations, gather as much information as you can from the caller and report it to the ISA at ISA@ilsheriff.org; or by contacting your local sheriff’s office.