OBION COUNTY — The Obion County Sheriff's Office issued a warning regarding phone scams on Tuesday. Individuals received phone calls claiming they won free groceries, vehicles, or other prizes.

Scammers instruct victims to pay a small fee, provide personal information, or purchase a gift to claim a prize. The Obion County Sheriff's Office stated that individuals who have not entered a contest have not won a prize.

The office further clarified that legitimate organizations do not require payment by gift cards, wire transfer, or cryptocurrency to claim a prize. Recipients of such calls are advised to hang up immediately.

The Obion County Sheriff's Office advised the public not to send money or provide personal information, including Social Security numbers, bank account information, or debit or credit card numbers, over the phone. The office provided the phone number 731-885-5832 for individuals to contact if they believe they have been victims of a scam.

This warning follows a pattern of fraudulent activity targeting residents in Obion County. The Obion County Sheriff's Office previously warned residents in 2023 about scam calls impersonating law enforcement regarding missed court dates, emphasizing that the office never contacts citizens by phone for such matters.

According to reports, the Obion County Sheriff's Office has previously issued public warnings about fraudulent calls offering free goods or vehicles. Sheriff Karl Jackson has been serving as Obion County Sheriff since September 1, 2018, and is currently in his second term.