Scammers Impersonating Local Institutions to Target Citizens

Excelsior Springs, Mo. (Dec. 1, 2024) — Local authorities are urging citizens to remain vigilant as scammers continue to prey on unsuspecting individuals in the community through fraudulent phone calls, emails, and online tactics. The Clay County Sheriff’s Department and Excelsior Springs Hospital have reported a recent surge in scam attempts designed to steal sensitive information or money from victims.

This past week, Excelsior Springs Hospital issued a public warning after receiving reports of fraudulent calls to patients. In these calls, scammers falsely claim to be from the hospital’s billing department and request patients’ Social Security numbers to verify their accounts.

“Please be aware that our billing team will NEVER ask a patient to provide their Social Security number,” the hospital clarified in a statement. “While we verify patients’ identities through other secure methods, we will never request this sensitive information over the phone.”

The Clay County Sheriff’s Department has received its share of scam calls impersonating law enforcement in recent months. The department said that fraudsters often pose as deputies using a real employee’s name, obtained from the Sheriff’s Office website, to add credibility to their threats. They will then demand immediate payments for fake warrants, stating they will be arrested unless they pay thousands of dollars through electronic payment options such as Zelle, ApplePay, or even BitCoin.

In public statements, the Sheriff’s Department emphasized that it does not accept electronic payments or call residents about warrants. They have also stated that bonds can only be posted in person at the Detention Center lobby in Liberty, Missouri. 

To combat these ongoing threats, the Mid-States Organized Crime Information Center offers the following advice:

1. Stop and Think: Scammers often create a sense of urgency. Take your time before responding to any suspicious request.
2. Verify the Source: Contact the organization directly using a trusted number or official website. Do not use the contact information provided in the suspicious email or call.
3. Never Share Sensitive Information: Do not disclose Social Security numbers, bank account details, or passwords over the phone or email.
4. Hang Up: If a call feels suspicious, end it immediately. Scammers rely on keeping you engaged.
5. Report Scams: Notify local law enforcement of any suspicious activity. Reporting helps protect others and assists in tracking down scammers.

Both the hospital and the Sheriff’s Department stress the importance of spreading awareness. Share this information with friends, family, and neighbors to prevent others from falling victim to these schemes.

For more information or to report a scam, contact the Clay County Sheriff’s Department at 816-407-3700 or visit their official website.