SUMTER COUNTY, FL (352today.com) – The Sumter County Sheriff’s Office (SCSO) is warning about a phone scam involving calls from a person claiming to be a deputy.

The sheriff’s office says the calls which are sometimes automated tell intended victims a variety of bogus stories including that they have an active warrant for their arrest, missed jury duty or a missed court date.

They say calls have come from various numbers, which appear to be internet-based and are likely used as a “spoof” or to disguise the number from where the call actually originates, and they come across as a number from the sheriff’s office.

SCSO is reminding you that deputies will not call you about these kinds of issues.

If you receive such a call like this, be aware it is a scam.

Deputies urge you not to send money, buy gift cards, or provide the caller with personal information.

If you have questions about whether any law enforcement contact is legitimate, hang up and call the agency directly. In this case, the number to the Sumter County Sheriff’s Office is 352-793-2621.