Earthquake Scam Rattles Nerves In Aliso Viejo

ALISO VIEJO, CA —The Orange County Sheriff's Department reminds residents of Aliso Viejo, and across Orange County that an earthquake prediction alert is by and large a scam.

On Sunday evening, roughly four residents told officials that they were contacted by someone who said that there would be an 8.4 magnitude quake, and they should evacuate their homes immediately, a spokesperson for the Aliso Viejo Police Services reported over social media.

"People were told to leave in an attempt for the suspects to possibly commit burglaries," they wrote.

Only specific methods are used to communicate emergencies other than in person, according to OCSD. There is no alert system to call before an earthquake, they said, adding that a scam for nefarious purposes was a likely reason for the calls.

It is imperative residents are aware of the scam, and always contact local authorities if you have a question, OCSD reminded. Here's how to register for a warning or disaster in Orange County.