FRANKFORT, Ky. — A scammer pretending to be a deputy is targeting teachers and school districts in Kentucky, the attorney general warned Wednesday.
According to Andy Beshear, his office has received multiple reports of a “Deputy Hart” calling schools and requesting to speak with specific teachers.
The scammer reportedly tells teachers they are wanted on an outstanding warrant or they’ve missed jury duty. Other school officials have been threatened with “obstruction charges.”
“While this scam is similar to the widespread jury duty scam, now there is a troubling new twist that indicates scammers are targeting teachers through social media,” Beshear said.
One victim said the scammer pressured her into purchasing $2,500 in gift cards.
The attorney general’s office took reports from teachers in Franklin, Jefferson and Whitley counties.
“It is despicable that at a time when our teachers are focused on returning to their classrooms to educate children they are being targeted by scammers,” Beshear said. “I want to make sure every teacher is aware of this scam and takes steps to protect their information online.”
Beshear’s office recommends teachers do the following:
- Change your privacy settings on your social media accounts.
- Verify the call. The scammer may be using a spoofed phone number.
- Never pay over the phone using gift cards or reloadable credit cards.
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