PORT ANGELES — The Clallam County Sheriff’s Office is warning residents about a sophisticated scam targeting local victims, often seniors, that has already stolen more than one million dollars on the Olympic Peninsula.
Investigators say scammers are posing as “Federal Trade Commission agents” — even though the FTC does not have agents — and using fear and step-by-step coaching to take victims’ money
In a recent 2025 case, an elderly Clallam County resident lost $28,000 after being instructed to buy a prepaid phone, withdraw cash, and hand the money to someone who showed up at his home. The scammers also gained access to bank accounts, but a bank employee flagged the activity and stopped another $200,000 from being stolen
Authorities say government agencies will never demand payment in cash, gift cards, or cryptocurrency, and will never ask for passwords. Anyone who believes they’re being targeted should stop contact immediately and call Clallam County law enforcement’s non-emergency line at 360-417-2459