(KNZA)--The Jackson County Sheriff’s Office is warning residents about a scam targeting family members of people incarcerated in the county jail.

The sheriff’s office recently received a report from someone contacted by a scammer posing as a sheriff’s sergeant. The caller claimed money was needed to bond a family member out of jail.

The scammer directed the victim to send money through a payment app, such as Chime, or wire money through a retailer like Walmart or Walgreens. In some cases, callers threaten to transfer the incarcerated person to an out-of-state jail if payment isn’t made.

The victim may then be told their family member is being released, only to discover at the jail that no payment was made.

The sheriff’s office emphasizes that deputies and correctional officers will not call family members or friends to request bail money through payment apps, wire transfers or similar methods.

Anyone receiving such a call should verify the information directly with the sheriff’s office at 785-364-2251 before sending money.

Officials also warn that scammers may disguise their caller ID and use threats or pressure to force quick decisions. Anyone who believes they’ve been targeted should immediately contact their financial institution or payment service and report the incident to law enforcement.