WOODBURY, TN - Once again, scammers have found a new way to make a quick buck, this time targeting the good people of Cannon County. Their latest trick? Pretending to be from the Cannon County Sheriff’s Office and asking businesses for donations. Because, of course, law enforcement—funded by taxpayer dollars—clearly needs to call around like a desperate telemarketer to keep the lights on.

Let’s set the record straight: No sheriff’s office anywhere is calling you up asking for money. The only thing Cannon County Deputies might ever solicit is candy for Trunk-or-Treat, and even then, they’ll be standing right in front of you, not hiding behind a shady phone call. And in case it wasn’t already obvious, they’re not asking for your credit card number or demanding payment via gift cards. Yes, gift cards. Because apparently, in the scammer’s twisted reality, that’s how the justice system operates now.

So, here’s your friendly reminder—if someone calls claiming to be the sheriff and demands money, hang up. Better yet, have a little fun and ask them which donut shop the department frequents most. (Spoiler: If they don’t know, they’re not real cops.) If you do get one of these calls, you can report it to the Cannon County Sheriff’s Office at 615-563-4322. And if you’re outside of Cannon County, contact your local authorities before some scammer sweet-talks your wallet right out of your pocket.

MORE: Check out some of the ludicrous tactics con artists will use to make a quick buck—read about the scams reported by local law enforcement departments HERE.