Special to Washington County News
Phone scams are increasingly becoming a nuisance and a threat to financial security for those that are on the receiving end of calls.
This time, Washington County Sheriff Kevin Crews is warning residents of scammers who are posing as workers from the Washington County Sheriff’s Office, Washington County Clerk of Court and the Social Security Administration. The phone number is often “spoofed” and appears on caller ID as one of the agencies listed above. Agency employee impersonators will claim there is a potential issue or discrepancy with the account in question or state that information needs to be verified, someone has a warrant or fines need to be paid.
In recognition of Sunshine Week (March 14 – 20, 2021), the Washington County Clerk of Court is honoring Florida’s commitment to government in the sunshine. Clerks play a vital role in providing access to important documents, including court and official records.
Florida has an extensive history of protecting citizens’ rights to have access to public information. Beginning in 1909 with the Public Records Law and evolving to the Sunshine Law, Florida has long supported providing access and the ability to participate in government. Florida’s Sunshine Laws rank among the strongest in the country, demonstrating the state’s commitment to protecting residents’ rights to remain informed and engaged.