EPHRATA - If it looks or sounds too good to be true, it probably is and should be avoided, says Grant County Sheriff Tom Jones,

Jones is warning the public to be wary of suspicious phone calls or emails seeking personal information or requesting money be sent, especially during tax season.

Every year the Sheriff's Office is informed of scams by locals who have fallen prey to the possibility of easy cash.

"Scams happen year around but seem to pick up during this time of year as people receive their tax refunds," Jones said. "More often than not, there isn't much law enforcement can do because the scams often originate overseas, or are extremely difficult to trace."

If you believe you have been the victim of a scam, contact the Sheriff's Office at 509-754-2011 ext. 468, or send an email to crimetips@co.grant.wa.us.

The Sheriff offers these examples of scams to help citizens be more careful: Internet/Email Phishing, Nigerian scheme, Advance Fee Loan, Government Grants, Employment, Lottery/Sweepstakes, Fake Check Scams, Grandparent and Medicare.