Sheriff issues warning about new scam tied to Nancy Guthrie disappearance case

TUCSON, ARIZONA: As the search for Savannah Guthrie's mother, Nancy Guthrie, enters its sixth month, investigators are warning the public about a new scam that appears to be exploiting interest in the high-profile case.

On Monday, July 13, Pima County Sheriff Chris Nanos issued a public statement after authorities became aware of online posts containing QR codes that allegedly seek money in connection with the ongoing investigation into Nancy Guthrie's disappearance.

Sheriff Chris Nanos warns public against QR code scam linked to Nancy Guthrie case

The Pima County Sheriff's Department said it has identified posts circulating online that reference the Nancy Guthrie investigation while asking people to send money through QR codes.

"The Pima County Sheriff's Department is aware of posts circulating about the Guthrie investigation that include a QR code requesting money," Nanos said in a statement issued July 14.

He added, "PCSD will never ask for money related to this case, or any investigation. Please do not send money to people you do not know or scan QR codes requesting payment."

Nanos urged members of the public to ignore such posts and report them if they come across them online.

He also encouraged people to remain cautious as interest in the case continues to generate attention across social media platforms.

"Stay alert and help spread the word," he added.

Authorities say misinformation has repeatedly complicated the investigation

The latest warning is not the first time investigators have had to address misleading information connected to Nancy Guthrie's disappearance.

Last month, Nanos publicly discussed a demand letter that was circulating online and being shared widely on social media. At the time, he suggested the document was likely not authentic.

"I think the FBI has done a number of arrests for false or fake ransom notes," Nanos said during a June 26 appearance on ‘The Buckmaster Show.’

"I think we're looking at another one of those today with what's been reported. But we'll let the FBI do their work."

The sheriff also expressed frustration over the spread of misinformation surrounding the case, saying public interest can be helpful but is sometimes taken advantage of by others.

"People have great interest and that's good because it helps us," he said. "But then it gets really abused."

Savannah Guthrie speaks about family's ongoing agony

The investigation continues months after Nancy Guthrie was kidnapped from her Tucson home during the early hours of February 1.

As authorities pursue leads, Savannah Guthrie has spoken publicly about the emotional toll the case has taken on her family.

During a June 23 episode of Today, she addressed a separate ransom note that had been sent to media organizations claiming that her 84-year-old mother had died.

"This is a new story today that's on your radar," Savannah said. "But this is the life that my sister lives, I live, that my brother lives, that our extended family lives, that our children live every day and we are in agony."

She continued by describing the uncertainty her family faces daily.

"And we cannot be at peace. No matter how much I try to come out here every day and smile and find that joy, I will. I promise I will. This is the moment to tell you that we need your help."

Savannah Guthrie and her siblings continue search for Nancy Guthrie

Despite the challenges, Savannah Guthrie said her family remains determined to find answers.

She revealed that she and her siblings, Annie Guthrie and Camron Guthrie, continue to hold onto hope as investigators work through the case. 

According to Savannah, the family is still "begging" for information that could help bring their mother home.

"We love our mom and we'll never stop looking for her, ever," she said.