Urgent warning: Bexar County Sheriff warns of Bitcoin scam targeting residents with fake deputy calls
Scammers impersonating sheriff’s deputies are threatening residents and pressuring them to send thousands of dollars through Bitcoin kiosks, prompting an urgent warning from Sheriff Javier Salazar.
The Bexar County Sheriff’s Office says it recently became aware of the scheme. In these cases, callers posing as deputies tell residents they missed jury duty or have an active warrant. Victims are then told they can avoid arrest by quickly paying large sums, often in the thousands of dollars, using Bitcoin machines or other cryptocurrency methods.
Authorities say they are investigating and working to prevent additional cases. As part of that effort, Salazar has proposed an ordinance to the City Council focused on cryptocurrency scams and stronger consumer protections.
If approved, the measure would require warning signs on Bitcoin kiosks to help residents spot common scam tactics before sending money.
Officials stress that law enforcement will never demand payment over the phone or ask for money to avoid arrest. The sheriff’s office does not accept payments by phone, gift cards, or cryptocurrency.
Residents who receive suspicious calls are urged to hang up and report them, as scammers continue using increasingly convincing tactics.
