HARRIS COUNTY, Texas – Harris County residents are urged to stay cautious following reports of a scam involving fraudulent phone calls posing as the Harris County Constable’s office.

False Warrant Claims and Payment Demands

Constable Mark Herman alerts the public to the scam, where individuals receive calls asserting they have pending warrants and must make immediate payments to avoid arrest. Despite using names of actual staff, Herman clarifies that his office never solicits payments over the phone.

Surge in Gift Card Scams

Senior Deputy Thomas Gilliland emphasizes similar concerns, noting a rise in gift card scams. These scams typically involve individuals posing as representatives from reputable companies or government bodies, demanding urgent gift card purchases.

Gilliland mentions that gift card scams come in various forms, including phone calls, emails, or even without direct contact with the suspect, clarifies the deputy. Scammers aim to obtain the card’s bar code or serial number.

Tactics and Prevention Measures

Gilliland outlines a common gift card scam where thieves steal cards from stores, record serial numbers, and then return them. When a customer buys and activates the card, the funds are immediately stolen.

To mitigate such risks, Gilliland advises purchasing eGift cards directly from official merchant websites. In case of victimization, individuals should promptly notify the store of purchase and file a police report, providing all relevant documentation.

Conclusion: Stay Informed and Vigilant

Residents of Harris County are reminded to remain vigilant against phone scams, especially those involving false warrants and gift card demands. By staying informed about common scam tactics and adopting preventive measures, individuals can better protect themselves from falling victim to fraudulent schemes.

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