Sheriff Mike Dougherty of the Marshall County Sheriff’s Office is warning residents about an increase in scams in which criminals are impersonating Norton Anti-Virus and PayPal representatives.
Sheriff Mike Dougherty emphasizes the importance of staying vigilant against these fraudulent activities. “We urge everyone to be cautious and not provide any personal information to callers or individuals who request access to your computer. Legitimate companies will not ask for sensitive information in this manner,” he said.
Reports of individuals receiving unsolicited calls from scammers posing as tech support for Norton Anti-Virus or as PayPal representatives have surfaced. These fraudsters often claim that there are issues with the victim’s account or that their computer is in danger, attempting to elicit private information or gain remote access to personal devices.
“If you suspect you are being targeted by a scam, please immediately call the sheriff’s office. We are here to help and guide you through the situation,” Sheriff Dougherty added.
To protect yourself from these scams, remember to:
1. **Verify the Caller**: Hang up and call the company back using the official number on their website.
2. **Do Not Share Personal Information**: Never give out sensitive information such as passwords, Social Security numbers, or financial details over the phone.
3. **Report Suspicious Calls**: Document any suspicious calls you receive and report them to local authorities.
The Sheriff’s Office is committed to safeguarding our community. Stay informed and stay safe.
