Residents across Modoc County are being warned to stay alert as reports of new and evolving scams continue to rise, both online and by phone.
One of the most common scams reported locally involves fake rental listings. Scammers are posting houses and apartments for rent in Alturas and nearby towns — often using photos stolen from legitimate real estate websites. Victims are asked to send deposits or first-month rent before ever seeing the inside of the home. In many cases, the property is not actually for rent or doesn’t belong to the person posting it.
People are getting tricked into wiring money or sending payments through apps like Zelle or Cash App. A writer at Modoc Record spotted her own home listed in a fake ad. “The listing used my house photos from years ago.”
Authorities recommend never sending money without confirming the rental in person and meeting the landlord or property manager directly. Scammers often claim they are out of town or unable to show the home but will offer a discount if payment is made quickly.
Phone scams are also active in the area. Reports include callers posing as PG&E, Amazon, or government agencies, demanding immediate payment or personal information. Others impersonate law enforcement and claim the victim has missed jury duty or owes fines, then pressure them to pay using gift cards or wire transfers.
A newer tactic involves “spoofing,” where scammers disguise their phone number to make it appear local. This can make even cautious residents more likely to answer or trust the call.
On social media, especially Facebook, fake buyer and seller accounts are also on the rise. Some offer unbeatable prices on popular items or post emotional stories to ask for money. In other cases, accounts are hacked and used to message friends and family of the victim, pretending to be in urgent need of help.
To avoid becoming a victim, officials recommend the following:
- Don’t send money or share financial details with anyone you haven’t met in person.
- Be cautious of urgent or emotional appeals, especially involving gift cards or wire transfers.
- Use official websites or phone numbers to verify claims from companies or agencies.
- Never click links or download attachments from unknown messages or emails.
- On Facebook Marketplace, verify identities and avoid transactions that require shipping or pre-payment.
Residents who suspect a scam can report it to the Modoc County Sheriff’s Office or file a complaint with the Federal Trade Commission at www.reportfraud.ftc.gov.
Authorities encourage the public to share warnings with neighbors, especially those who may be more vulnerable to these tactics.
Source: Modoc Record
