Phone scam alert issued by New York State Police in Cortland County cautions residents against fraudulent calls that demand payments to avoid arrest. Scammers, posing as law enforcement, use spoofed numbers and coerce victims into making payments by claiming warrants or drug-related offenses to intimidate them.
Residents are advised to be cautious and not disclose any financial or personal information over the phone, text, or email. Legitimate law enforcement authorities do not request payments via cryptocurrency or gift cards. If in doubt, individuals are encouraged to contact their local police department directly or through the non-emergency line for verification.