Hidalgo County Sheriff’s Office Warns Residents of New Text Message Scam

Hidalgo County Sheriff’s Office Warns Residents of New Text Message Scam

In an urgent message to Hidalgo County residents, the Sheriff’s Office has announced a new scam targeting individuals through text messages. These deceptive messages claim to be from legitimate authorities and demand personal information and payments to settle alleged toll violations. Residents are urged to ignore these fraudulent communications to protect their personal data and finances.

A Deceptive Text Message

The scam begins with a seemingly innocuous text message appearing on the screens of residents’ phones. The message mimics official communications and instructs recipients to provide personal details or make payments for supposed toll fees. However, the Hidalgo County Sheriff’s Office has declared these messages as scams, urging the public not to engage with the links or requests presented in them.

Official Toll Notices: A Mail-Only Affair

To help residents differentiate between genuine and fraudulent communications, the Sheriff’s Office has clarified that any official toll evasion notices are exclusively sent via mail. Text messages or electronic communications are not used for such purposes, making any such message a red flag for potential scams.

Steps to Take if You Receive the Scam Message

If you receive a suspicious text message regarding toll fees, the Sheriff’s Office advises several precautionary steps:

• Do not click on any links or attachments.
• Avoid sharing any personal or financial information.
• Contact your local law enforcement agency directly for verification.

Residents are encouraged to remain vigilant and question the authenticity of unexpected electronic communications.

Staying Safe in a Digital World

In an era where digital scams are becoming increasingly sophisticated, awareness and caution are key to staying safe. The Hidalgo County Sheriff’s Office remains committed to protecting the community and providing resources and support to those who may have fallen victim to such scams.

For any concerns or reports of suspicious activity, residents are urged to contact their local law enforcement agency immediately. The Sheriff’s Office is also a valuable resource for guidance and assistance in these matters.

Useful Contacts

For further information or to report suspicious messages, you can reach out to the Hidalgo County Sheriff’s Office or your local law enforcement agency:

• Hidalgo County Sheriff’s Office Website