Local law enforcement agencies are warning that the creativity of scam artists knows no bounds — and the methods of which they try to harm their victims are becoming far more frightening and effective.

A local resident recently received a bogus letter that had been designed to look like the recipient’s home was in trouble due to delinquent taxes. The sender demanded a large sum of money within 15 days to rectify the situation and prevent actions such as, “seizing Social Security benefits, garnishing wages and bank accounts, revoking benefits, suspending licenses, and a levy or offset to any tax refund gained this year.”

The message appeared to be from an authentic agency and used legal language in an attempt to confuse and frighten the intended victim. But the sense of urgency conveyed by the letter was one indication that it was a scam. 

The Park County Sheriff’s Office, working with both the Cody Police Department and the Powell Police Department, recently issued a reminder to local residents to be vigilant. 

“Thieves are always looking for new and innovative ways to take advantage of honest, hard-working, people and the first best line of defense is to be informed,” said Sheriff Scott Steward.

If you receive correspondence in the mail remember to always double check, authorities advise to slow down and calm down before doing anything. Contact local offices with known numbers to verify the legitimacy of documents received.

The Park County Treasurer’s Office will always have information about the tax status of a local property and the Park County Clerk’s Office will always know of a local lien or levy. 

“Both offices are aware of this con and are more than willing to help,” said Charla Baugher Torczon, a spokeswoman for the office. “And never hesitate to reach out to local law enforcement for assistance.”

Even if the letter claims to be from the state or federal government, there are legal steps that must be carried out at the local level, making local offices a good source of information.

Sheriff Steward, along with Cody Police Chief Chuck Baker and Powell Police Chief Roy Eckerdt, offered these reminders:

• DO NOT rush.

• Call a family member, friend, or a KNOWN community resource to help. 

• If they claim to be law enforcement, a local utility, or a business, HANG UP and call  back on an established, known number. • Gift cards or green dot cards are NEVER an appropriate way to pay a fine or take care of a warrant. 

• Do not deposit or cash checks that are unknown. Contact the financial institution that is listed on the check via an established or know number.

• DO NOT HESITATE TO ASK FOR HELP.

Finally, authorities say to be protective of personal information such as birth date, Social Security number, bank account numbers and credit card information.