Beware: DeKalb County Sheriff Warns of Bitcoin Phone Scams

Warning from DeKalb County Sheriff’s Office

SYCAMORE – The DeKalb County Sheriff’s Office has not solicited any contributions to a Bitcoin account for legal matters. If you or someone you know has received such a request, it's crucial to report it to the sheriff’s office as it may indicate a phone scam.

The Scam Details

The sheriff's office issued a warning via a social media post about an ongoing phone scam. In this scam, an unknown caller impersonates a sheriff’s office employee, demanding money be deposited into a Bitcoin account concerning a legal issue.

Authorities clarified that the phone number associated with this scam, 815-826-9542, is not linked to the sheriff's office. The scammer has also pretended to be known officials, including Deputy Chief Jim Burgh.

Tactics Used by Scammers

Victims report that these callers engage them for long periods and often threaten arrest if their demands are not met. The sheriff’s office reminds the public that no legitimate employee will ever request money or Bitcoin over the phone to resolve legal matters.