Collier County residents urged to avoid government impersonation scam

A new twist on an old scam is targeting residents, and it's called the government impersonation scam. Scammers are leaving voicemails claiming you failed to report for jury duty, have a warrant, or missed paying a ticket.

The message instructs you to call a specific person at the sheriff's office, where you are then asked to leave personal information, making you a potential victim of identity theft.

The Collier County Sheriff's Office warns that while the number and name may seem legitimate, they are not.

"If you have questions, you should go look up the number yourself and not use the one or link provided in the call," they said.

In short, don't send money. The Collier Sheriff has a "Call Before You Pay" hotline at (239) 252-CALL (2255). Use it.

To stay safe, do not click on any links, never provide personal financial information to a caller, secure your account, and just hang up if something seems suspicious.

These scammers may impersonate other agencies, power companies, banks, or others, and the attempts could come via phone, text, or email.