From a retired police officer who lives here. Short, practical, no scare tactics.
I'll say it plain: the IRS, the sheriff, your utility company, and Amazon do not take payment in gift cards. Ever. If someone on the phone tells you to go buy Apple, Google Play, or Target cards and read them the numbers, you're talking to a crook. Hang up. If you already did it, call the card company right away and report it at ReportFraud.ftc.gov.
Utility scammers count on panic. A real utility sends written notices well before any shutoff, and won't demand payment by crypto, wire, or prepaid card on the spot. Hang up and call the number on your actual bill — not the number the caller gives you.
Crooks can clone a voice from a few seconds of social media video. If "your grandson" calls crying that he's in jail and needs bail money, and "don't tell Mom" — stop. Hang up and call him or his parents directly. Better yet, pick a family code word today that only you know. Real courts and jails don't send couriers to your door for cash.
General safety tips, not legal advice. Emergencies: call 911.