A phone call claiming to be from a sheriff's deputy or court official can sound frightening, especially when the caller insists that money must be sent immediately.

But local authorities warn that criminals are impersonating law-enforcement and court personnel to steal money and sensitive information from families.

How the scam works

A caller may claim that you missed jury duty, have an arrest warrant, or must pay to help a relative in jail.

Some scammers use real employees' names, convincing legal language and technology that makes a caller ID appear to show a legitimate government number.

Others send official-looking paperwork or insist that the conversation must remain secret.

Shelby County government specifically warned in January that impostors were posing as Pretrial Services and Sheriff's Office personnel, sometimes contacting families late at night.

They may demand payment through Zelle, Cash App, gift cards, bank transfers or other methods that are difficult to reverse.

What local authorities say

The Shelby County Sheriff's Office warns that government agencies do not demand fine payments through gift cards or cash-transfer apps.

The county says its Pretrial Services staff will never phone families to request money to help or release someone who is incarcerated.

The most important warning sign is a demand to act immediately under threat of arrest or other serious consequences.

Five steps to protect yourself

First, end the call if the person pressures you to pay or disclose personal information.

Second, do not call back using a phone number given by the suspicious caller.

Third, locate an official phone number independently and contact the agency directly.

Fourth, never share a Social Security number, banking credentials, security code or payment-app access with an unsolicited caller.

Fifth, speak with a trusted family member or caregiver before making an unexpected payment.

Where to report suspicious calls

Memphis Police Department's nonemergency reporting number is 901-545-COPS.

Shelby County Pretrial Services can be contacted during business hours at 901-222-4000 for verification of claims concerning its office.

Reports can also be submitted to the Federal Trade Commission at ReportFraud.ftc.gov.

If money has already been sent, contact the bank or payment provider immediately to request a reversal or other fraud assistance.

People of every age can be targeted, but older adults and caregivers may benefit from discussing these tactics before a call arrives.

A legitimate request can withstand independent verification; a scammer usually wants you to stay frightened and act before checking.