Dearborn Residents Targeted by Scammers Posing as Officials: How to Stay Safe

Dearborn Police have seen more fraud cases lately, as per the Country Herald. Scammers call or email people, trying to scare them. They pretend to be cops, government workers, relatives, or money advisors.

One trick? Fraudsters say you skipped jury duty or have a warrant out. They threaten arrest. Then they demand payment—sometimes thousands of dollars dumped into Bitcoin machines.

Another scam plays on fear for loved ones. Callers say a family member got hurt, arrested, or needs help right away. Police warn that con artists use panic and worry to make victims send money before thinking it through or checking if the story holds up.

Fake investment pitches have popped up too. Scammers promise guaranteed profits, win your trust, and then drain bank accounts or steal personal information. These fraudsters tell people not to hang up, not to call police, and to act fast.

Real law enforcement won't demand payment by phone. They won't ask for gift cards. They won't tell you to use cryptocurrency kiosks to dodge arrest. If a threat or offer sounds too wild to be real, it is.

Get a weird call or message? Hang up. Delete it. Then, call police, using official numbers you find yourself. Anyone who thinks they've been scammed should file a report with Dearborn Police.