The state Department of Public Safety Sheriff Division is warning the public of a possible scam involving a sheriff impersonator.
An individual reached out to DPS last week after she was contacted by someone claiming to be from a fictitious office called the "Hawaiʻi Department of Public Safety, State Security Division."
The scammer said the woman would receive four compensation fund checks totaling $20,000, but would first have to pay a processing fee.
The scammer also sent a picture of a fake ID with a Hawaiʻi sheriff badge logo.
“Unfortunately, these scam artists usually target the elderly. They are taking thousands of dollars in life savings from them before the scam is discovered and reported. The story changes slightly, but in every instance, they are asking for money either by email or over the phone,” said Lanikoa “Koa” Dobrowolsky, Sheriff Division First Deputy, in a statement.
DPS says that sheriffs do not call, text or email people asking for personal information, or ask for payment electronically or by phone.
If you receive a call, text or email matching this scam, please call the Sheriff Division at (808) 586-1352.
