Sonora, CA…The Tuolumne County Sheriff’s Office has received a report of new scam that has hit the county. A resident in Sonora received a letter claiming she owed a debt of $5,147.27 to the USB Recovery Department.

The letter was from the “Office of Registrar, General accounting Office, Records Division.” She opened the letter and saw what appeared to be an official court document claiming she owed thousands. The letter contained her correct date of birth, and Social Security Number. She knew she did not owe this debt and did an internet search and found that it appeared to be a scam.

The letter was printed on linen style paper and had the appearance of a court filed document, although a court stamp was not present on the document. The postmark on the envelope was from Phoenix AZ. When the Deputy called the number listed on the letter, it went to a voicemail and asked that a case number be left and the call would be returned.

If you are faced with a situation as this and know you do not have any outstanding debts, do some research. DO NOT give out any personal or account information. Contact a credit reporting bureau and lock your credit in case attempts are made to open any credit in your name. It is also recommended that you contact your bank to notify them of the situation and check on any possible fraudulent activity. If fraud has occurred, contact your law enforcement agency for a report and documentation.