The Stafford Sheriff’s Office has received several reports of a threatening text message criminals are using to try and steal your money.

The scam starts with the criminal sending a text to your phone that includes your personal information, including your address, family member’s names and possibly even a photo of your residence. The text will also include graphic photos of mutilated bodies. The criminal will then demand money, typically via a gift card, be sent to protect you and your family.

If you receive a text like this, contact law enforcement. Do not reply or click on any link that is in the text string. We would like to remind the public to never reply to a text from someone you don’t know.