Jim Moore / November 6, 2026
YATES COUNTY — Financial fraud has cost Yates County residents more than $385,000 so far this year, prompting the Yates County Sheriff’s Office to issue an urgent public advisory regarding persistent and evolving scams.
According to the Sheriff’s Criminal Investigation Division, there is still a steady number of cases involving fraud reported in the county. The perpetrators use varying pressure tactics, which create an illusion of urgency that is intended to scare and pressure the victims into sending the money before they can even confirm who is calling them.
The government authorities recommend that citizens not act hastily, verify any unusual contacts by calling the correct number, and also seek guidance from a trustworthy friend or relative.
Investigators emphasized several critical warning signs and operational truths regarding legitimate organizations:
- Payment Demands: Government bodies, law enforcement agencies, and utility companies will never demand payment via gift cards, wire transfers, or prepaid debit cards.
- Coercive Threats: Legitimate federal or local agencies will not threaten immediate arrest, legal action, or physical detention over an unsolicited phone call.
- Digital Invasions: Unsolicited demands for remote device access, suspicious pop-up alerts with embedded links, and unexpected lottery or sweepstakes notices requiring “clearance fees” are hallmarks of fraud.
- Social Media Investments: Residents should scrutinize online investment pitches carefully, particularly high-yield opportunities promoted on social feeds or through private messaging applications.
Those who suspect they have been targeted or hacked need to inform their banking institution to freeze their accounts, reset their passwords, and file a complaint at their nearest police station. Complaints can be also lodged with the Federal Trade Commission at ReportFraud.FTC.gov.
To report suspected fraud or suspicious communications in Yates County, contact:
- Yates County Sheriff’s Office: (315) 536-4438
- Penn Yan Police Department: (315) 536-4426
- New York State Police: (607) 243-5772
