Jackson, Mich. (WKHM) — Multiple phone scams have been reported in and around the Jackson area recently. According to the Jackson County Office of the Sheriff, Jackson County residents are receiving phone calls from an unknown suspect claiming to be Deputy Abbey from the Sheriff’s Office. The unknown suspect then demands that the individual receiving the call pay money via gift card, credit card, or cash for a fine from the court or they will be arrested. They also ask for very personal information such as a social security number, an address, or a date of birth. The Sheriff’s Office says no law enforcement officer will ever call and demand money from a citizen and then threaten them with arrest, and advises citizens to not give out personal information over the phone.

The Hillsdale County Sheriff’s Office also sent out a notice of a phone scam. It was called to their attention that a person called a family member of one of the Hillsdale County Jail inmates, telling them that they were a bonding company, and would help to facilitate getting the inmate bonded out. They requested the family member send money through PayPal. The Sheriff’s Office encourages people to verify the authenticity of any individual requesting money via cash apps.