GADSDEN— As part of National Safety Month, the Etowah County Sheriff’s Office is encouraging residents to remain vigilant against scams and fraud schemes that continue to cost Americans billions of dollars each year.

Law enforcement officials say scammers are becoming increasingly sophisticated, making it more difficult for people to recognize fraudulent calls, emails, text messages, and online solicitations.

The Sheriff’s Office is urging residents to remember a simple rule when evaluating unsolicited offers or requests for money: if it sounds too good to be true, it probably is.

Officials noted that government agencies do not call individuals demanding immediate payment, legitimate lotteries do not require winners to pay upfront fees to claim prizes, and reputable businesses will not pressure customers into making immediate financial decisions.

Another key recommendation is to verify the identity of anyone requesting personal or financial information. Residents who receive a call from someone claiming to represent a bank, utility company, government agency, or other organization should hang up and contact the organization directly using a phone number obtained independently.

The Sheriff’s Office also emphasized the importance of safeguarding personal information. Residents should never provide Social Security numbers, bank account information, passwords, or other sensitive data over the phone or through email to someone who initiated the contact.

Officials expressed particular concern for older adults, who are often targeted by scammers. The Sheriff’s Office encourages family members, friends, and neighbors to discuss common scams with elderly loved ones and ensure they know who to contact if they receive a suspicious call or message.

“When in doubt, don’t engage,” the Sheriff’s Office advises. Residents are encouraged to hang up on suspicious callers, delete questionable emails, and seek guidance before responding to requests for money or personal information.

The Etowah County Sheriff’s Office reminds residents that a few moments of caution can help prevent financial loss and identity theft. Anyone who believes they may have been targeted by a scam or has concerns about a suspicious contact is encouraged to contact local law enforcement for assistance.

Safety Tip: If you receive an unexpected request for money, gift cards, wire transfers, cryptocurrency, or personal information, stop and verify the request before taking any action. A trusted family member, financial institution, or law enforcement agency can often help determine whether the request is legitimate.