(KNZA)--Scammers, citing the names of such major credit card companies as Discover, Mastercard, and Visa, are using the coronavirus pandemic in an effort to rip off local residents.

That’s according to a release from Brown County Sheriff John Merchant, who said his office has received reports from residents who have been targeted.

Merchant said calls are being placed to both landlines and cell phones, with those who answer being offered 0% interest on the credit cards due to COVID-19 relief.

Callers are seeking their target’s credit card numbers and bank account number, claiming they will direct deposit the refundable interest.

Automated calls are also reportedly being used in the scam attempt.

Merchant said no personal information, such as card and account numbers, should ever be provided to unsolicited callers, and the best way to avoid being ripped off is to simply hang up.