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The City of Clinton and Clinton Police Department are reminding residents to be cautious of phone scams involving individuals impersonating law enforcement officers or other government officials. These scams often use fear and urgency to convince victims to send money under false pretenses.

In many cases, scammers claim that an individual has missed jury duty, has an outstanding warrant, or must pay a fine immediately to avoid arrest. Others may pretend to be calling on behalf of a child or grandchild who has been arrested and needs money for bail.

Scammers may instruct victims to withdraw cash, purchase gift cards, or deposit money into a Bitcoin ATM. They may also use technology to make their phone number appear to belong to a legitimate law enforcement agency.

Law enforcement will never call residents and demand payment over the phone to avoid arrest or clear a warrant. Officers will not require payments through Bitcoin, gift cards, or other unusual payment methods.

Residents who receive a suspicious call should hang up immediately and contact the law enforcement agency directly using a verified phone number. Never provide personal or financial information to an unknown caller.

New Mississippi Law Offers Protections for Bitcoin Scam Victims

Mississippi House Bill 1625, which took effect July 1, 2026, established new consumer protections for individuals using virtual currency kiosks, commonly known as Bitcoin ATMs.

Under the law, certain victims who are tricked into depositing money through these machines may be eligible for a refund. Qualifying new customers must report the fraudulent transaction to both the Bitcoin ATM operator and law enforcement or another government entity within 90 days of the last qualifying transaction and provide documentation of the fraud.

The law also requires operators to hold a new customer’s first transaction for 96 hours, during which the customer may request a full refund.

Residents who believe they have been victims of a Bitcoin ATM scam are encouraged to act immediately by contacting their local police department, notifying the Bitcoin ATM operator, and keeping all receipts, transaction records, and communications related to the incident. Refund eligibility depends on the circumstances of the transaction and the requirements outlined in the law.

The City of Clinton encourages residents to discuss these scams with family members, friends, and neighbors, particularly older adults who may be targeted by criminals using threats or emotional appeals.

If a caller demands immediate payment to avoid arrest or help a loved one in trouble, stop and verify the information before taking action.