TYLER, Texas — The Smith County Sheriff's Office is alerting the community about a recent phone scam involving people to deposit money into bitcoin machines in local vape shops across Tyler.
According to the press release, the scammer is identifying themselves as a "Smith County Sheriff's Deputy Smith" and is allegedly telling the victims they have an outstanding warrant and must pay a fine.
The victims are then prompted to deposit money in bitcoin machines in local vape shapes across Tyler.
In addition, there has been a report of an individual disguising themselves "Captain Craig Halbrooks" as the Patrol Commander for the SCSO.
As of now, "approximately $50,000 has been fraudulently obtained by this suspect(s) from Smith County citizens. This suspect is requesting $10,000 to $20,000 at a time," according to the press release.
Officials are reminding the community that law enforcement will never reach out over the phone to request money.
If you do receive a scam call, you are urged to hang up and report the issue.