The Kershaw County Sheriff’s Office is warning residents about an increase in scam calls involving individuals pretending to represent the Sheriff’s Office.

Scammers are spoofing the Sheriff’s Office phone number and using the names of actual deputies in an attempt to make the calls appear legitimate. In some cases, caller ID may show “Unknown Name” or may appear to come from a local number.

Residents should be aware that Kershaw County will not collect fines, fees, warrants, or other payments by text message, email, or phone call. The Sheriff’s Office will never demand payment by phone, and residents should never send money, gift cards, cryptocurrency, or Bitcoin without first verifying the information.

Before making any payment, residents should contact the appropriate office directly to confirm whether any fine, fee, or court-related matter is legitimate. This may include the Kershaw County Sheriff’s Office, Clerk of Court, Treasurer, Planning and Zoning or Magistrates Office.

If you receive a suspicious call, text, or email claiming to be from the Sheriff’s Office, do not provide personal information or payment. Hang up and call the Sheriff’s Office directly to verify.

Kershaw County Sheriff’s Office: 803.425.1512

The Sheriff’s Office encourages residents to share this information with family, friends, and neighbors to help prevent others from becoming victims of these scams.