COPS WARN OF NEW…

How the Scam Works

In many reported cases, victims receive a phone call or text message from someone claiming to be:

• A police officer
• A government official
• A bank representative
• Or even a distressed family member

The caller often says there’s an urgent problem — an arrest warrant, suspicious bank activity, unpaid taxes, or a loved one in danger. The goal is simple: trigger fear.

Once the victim is emotionally engaged, the scammer pressures them to act immediately. They may demand payment through wire transfers, cryptocurrency, prepaid gift cards, or even cash pickups.

Authorities say the urgency is intentional. Scammers don’t want you to verify the story — they want you to react.