08/04/2026
⚠️ SCAM ALERT: Be Aware of Calls and Text Messages Impersonating Others ⚠️
Unfortunately, scams continue to impact our community, and we'd like to remind residents to stay vigilant.
We try to share with the community often to remember: The Sheriff's Office will never call you to demand payment, request gift cards, or instruct you to travel to a specific location to resolve a warrant or legal matter.
We also want to warn the public about other types of scams, including fraudulent text messages.
The screenshot below is from a REAL text message received by a Hays County resident who works remotely. The scammer addressed the individual by their first name and even used their supervisor's full name, making the message appear legitimate. Believing it could have been a work phone, the resident initially responded before quickly recognizing the scam when they were asked to purchase electronic gift cards.
Scammers often use publicly available information to make their messages appear legitimate. They may know your name, where you work, or even the names of your supervisors, coworkers, or family members to gain your trust.
In some cases, they also send emails containing what appear to be legitimate PDF documents. These attachments may be malicious and are designed to install malware or steal your personal information if opened. Always verify the sender before opening unexpected attachments or clicking on links.
Protect yourself by following these tips:
- Never send money, gift cards, or e-certificates to someone based solely on a phone call or text message.
- Verify requests by contacting the person or organization using a trusted phone number—not the one provided in the message.
- Never share personal, financial, or account information with unknown callers or texters.
- If you receive a suspicious call claiming to be from the Hays County Sheriff's Office, hang up and contact our office directly to verify the information.
Please help protect our community by sharing this post with your friends, family, neighbors, and coworkers. Awareness is one of the best defenses against scams.