Law enforcement in Steuben County is investigating a telephone scam where the caller identifies themselves as a member of the sheriff’s office.
On September 28, deputies were informed that a person called, identifying themselves as Deputy Buchanan,” stating that the person had 24 hours to call back or turn themselves in.
They were given the option to pay a fine, as well. The number used was (607) 794-4975. When the victim called back- it disconnected.
Deputies say it’s likely that the number was spoofed, or computer generated.
The Steuben County Sheriff’s Office has no deputy employed with the last name Buchanan.
“We have verified that in fact, no adjacent county has any such employee either. Should you receive any call directing you to turn yourself in or pay a fine, please call (607) 622-3911 and report it,” the sheriff’s office said in a statement.
Scams like this occur daily. Millions of dollars is lost annually to scams like this one.
The sheriff’s office is encouraging the public to be aware of them.
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