The Flathead County Sheriff’s Office is warning residents about reports it has received about anonymous text messages that appear to be a scam with “unknown intent.”
Beginning on Jan. 3, the sheriff’s office received information about suspicious text messages appearing on cell phones in the Flathead. The messages, which are being sent from an email account based outside of the United States, indicate that the receiver “needs to be next of kin to someone and their family,” according to a statement from Sheriff Chuck Curry.
The sender claims to be an attorney and wants to be contacted for additional details. Curry said the sheriff’s office has been in contact with the Montana Office of Consumer Protection and there is no indication that these messages have led to fraud or other loss.
“We recommend not responding to suspicious text messages, emails, or phone calls requesting personal information without first verifying the validity of the soliciting person or organization,” Curry said in the statement.
To contact the Montana Office of Consumer Protection, call 800-481-6896.