'Mama, Mama Help': SC sheriff warns residents about disturbing phone scam

CHESTERFIELD, S.C. — A Chesterfield County woman answered her phone to hear what sounded like a child’s voice on the other end. “Mama, Mama help,” the voice said.

But, the voice was just a recording and the call was a scam, according to the Chesterfield County Sheriff’s Office. 

When she picked up the phone, she reported immediately hearing a click and then what sounded like a recording of a little boy speaking, the sheriff’s office said. 

The resident hung up the phone and contacted authorities, realizing that it was not her child and probably a scam. 

“If you get a call like this, first, verify that your child is okay. If your child is with you or you know they are safe, hang up immediately and call the sheriff’s office,” the sheriff’s warning stated. 

These scams are just some of several phone fraud attempts targeting residents. Other scams can include fake USPS texts and calls about fake jury duty and court date warnings.

Those who get a similar phone call can reach the sheriff’s office at (843)623-2101 or non-emergency dispatch at (843)623-6838.

• Emotional appeal – Any pitch that ratchets up your emotion will inhibit your rational judgment.  

• Sense of urgency – You MUST act now, or else.  

• Request for unorthodox payment – Gift cards, prepaid credit cards, wire transfers, etc.  

• Explanations that don’t ring true – If your new “landlord” can’t show you the inside of the house, that could be because they don’t own it.  

• You won, now pay up – It’s not a prize if you have to pay for it. Taxes, fees, shipping, whatever.  

• Too good to be true – That’s because it’s not true. Sorry, your long-lost relative didn’t die, leaving you millions. That car you bought online for a third of its Kelly Blue Book value doesn’t really exist. The son of a billionaire diamond broker didn’t “swipe right” on you and fall instantly in love. That work-at-home job paying you hundreds of dollars an hour for stuffing envelopes isn’t real.