BAKERSFIELD
SCAM ALERTS
Verified local fraud warnings, plain-language red flags and official reporting resources for Bakersfield and Kern County. Bookmark this guide; it will be updated when agencies confirm new patterns.
WHAT RESIDENTS SHOULD KNOW
Unauthorized bystanders are seeking information at crash scenes
Bakersfield police say two identified men have approached people at multiple collision scenes and sought personal or insurance information. Their purpose remains unknown.
READ THE CRASH-SCENE WARNING →Callers are sending ‘couriers’ to collect cash
Bakersfield police say callers impersonating banks or government agencies are telling residents to withdraw money, then arranging an in-person pickup at a home or meeting place.
READ THE COURIER-SCAM WARNING →Copied social profiles and impersonation messages
Fake accounts can copy a trusted name, photograph and posts before asking followers for money, cryptocurrency, gift cards or account-verification codes.
READ THE IMPERSONATION-SCAM GUIDE →Fast rule: Never move money to “protect it” because of an unexpected call or message. Hang up and contact the bank, company or agency through a number printed on a statement, card or official website.
OFFICIAL RESOURCES
Act quickly if money or account information was surrendered. Preserve messages, receipts, call logs, descriptions and video, then report through independently verified channels.