MITCHELL S.D. (Mitchell Now) Residents in Mitchell are being urged to stay cautious as scam calls, fraudulent text messages and online impersonation schemes continue affecting consumers across South Dakota.
The South Dakota Consumer Protection Division has issued multiple recent consumer alerts warning South Dakotans about increasingly sophisticated scams involving text messages, robocalls, and fake business communications.
In a March 2026 consumer alert, the Attorney General’s Office warned that scammers are impersonating government agencies, law enforcement and businesses through phone calls and social media messages. Officials said scammers often pressure victims into sending money through gift cards, wire transfers or cryptocurrency.
State officials have also warned consumers about fraudulent text messages involving fake package delivery notifications, bank account alerts, government imposters and suspicious prize claims.
“Scammers are becoming more sophisticated in their methods,” Attorney General Jackley said in the March alert. Officials encourage residents to verify suspicious messages directly with organizations using official phone numbers instead of responding to unsolicited texts or calls.
Consumer protection experts recommend several ways residents can protect themselves:
- Avoid clicking unfamiliar links in text messages or emails.
- Never send money or personal information to unknown callers.
- Be cautious of urgent threats demanding immediate payment.
- Verify suspicious contacts directly with banks, businesses or government agencies.
- Report suspected scams to authorities.
Officials say scammers frequently rely on fear and urgency to pressure victims into making quick decisions. The South Dakota Consumer Protection Division advises residents to take time before responding to unexpected messages or requests for money.
Residents who believe they may have encountered a scam can report incidents through the state Consumer Protection Division or contact local law enforcement.