Over the past 10 months, Chattooga County has seen a rash of scams targeting victims and robbing them of their hard-earned money.  The most common scams, according to federal, state and local authorities involve the scammer impersonating government authorities such as federal and state agencies and local law enforcement. 

The Most Common Scams 

• Government/Agency Impersonation Scams: Scammers pose as officials from agencies such as the Federal Deposit Insurance Corporation (FDIC), the Georgia Department of Driver Services (DDS), the IRS, Social Security Administration, or local law enforcement. They often use scare tactics, such as claiming the resident missed a federal court appearance, has an outstanding warrant, owes fines (sometimes over $10,000), or has a suspended license. They typically demand immediate payment via unconventional methods like gift cards, mobile payment apps (e.g., Cash App), or wire transfers.
• Funeral Scams: Scammers call families who have recently lost a loved one, claiming to be from the funeral home and requesting credit card payment for services not covered by insurance.
• Real Estate Fraud: Reports have been filed with the Chattooga County Sheriff’s office regarding individuals selling property they do not have the authority to sell, providing fictitious deeds.
• Banking and Identity Theft: Unauthorized withdrawals from bank accounts and attempts to change direct deposit information for benefits checks (like Social Security) have been reported.
• Online/Cybercrimes: These include phishing (fake emails/texts with malicious links), investment/cryptocurrency scams (often using romance scam tactics to build trust), and social media fraud.
• Door-to-Door Solicitations: Residents have reported suspicious individuals going door-to-door with hard-luck stories to solicit money. 

• Government agencies will never demand immediate payment over the phone and will always communicate official actions in writing.
• Never pay with gift cards, wire transfers, or mobile payment apps to clear a warrant, fine, or debt.
• Be wary of pressure to act immediately or threats of arrest or legal action.
• Do not click on links in unsolicited text messages or emails.
• Verify the identity of anyone requesting personal or financial information by contacting the official agency or business directly using a trusted, independent source (like their official website or a known phone number on the back of your card).
• Report suspicious calls or activity to the Chattooga County Sheriff’s office or local police immediately