MUNCIE, Ind. (WISH) – Scammers are targeting people by posing as inmates in the Delaware County Jail.  The Delaware County Sheriff’s Office put out a warning this week saying “many” people have received text messages from scammers posing as people who are currently incarcerated.  The messages often instruct recipients to send money to continue communication, the sheriff’s office said. “While these messages may closely resemble legitimate inmate communication systems, they are not.” People with family being held inside the Delaware County Jail are advised to not respond, don’t click any links, and call the jail directly to verify whether an inmate is trying to reach out. According to the FBI Internet Crime Complaint Center (IC3), cybercrimes accounted for more than $20.8 billion in losses in 2025. A 26% increase from the year prior. The most common crimes were phishing and spoofing schemes.  Indiana accounted for more than 20,000 cybercrime complaints last year, according to IC3, ranking 12th per capita among all states and territories.   It’s hitting all age groups. A 2025 Consumer Reports survey found texting and messaging scams jumped 50% in the previous year, with 18 to 29-year-olds falling for scams at record levels. The FBI recommends anyone trying to avoid becoming a victim: Be suspicious of any unsolicited calls, messages, and emails. Never give money or personal information following unsolicited messages. End communication if a stranger pressures for money. Anyone who may have been a victim of a cybercrime can file a report with the FBI’s Internet Crime Complaint Center at ic3.gov. SEE ALSO: Prevent robocalls and unwanted texts with these Consumer Reports tips ...read more read less