New Kent authorities warn residents about scammers pretending to be deputies

NEW KENT COUNTY, Va. (WRIC) -- The New Kent County Sheriff's Office is warning the public about scammers who are calling residents claiming to be deputies.

The announcement came Monday, Nov. 24, with the office explaining that these scammers "have even been using the real names of [New Kent] deputies to make their calls seem legitimate."

Authorities provided the following tips in case one of these scammers finds you:

• Know that the New Kent County Sheriff’s Office will never call and demand money, payment or personal information.
• If you receive a suspicious call, hang up immediately.
• Do not provide any personal or financial information over the phone.
• If you're concerned you may be speaking to a scammer, you can verify any contact by calling the office directly at 804-966-9500.

The office said that, if you believe you’ve been targeted by this scam, or if you have any questions, you can contact them at the number above.

"Stay alert and help spread the word to keep our community safe," the sheriff's office said.