Aug. 29, 2023

Johnson City Police Department warns citizens of phone scam

The Johnson City Police Department has received several reports from residents who have been called by someone impersonating a representative from the department. The caller is using pressure tactics to obtain personal and financial information.

The Police Department does not make phone calls in an attempt to collect unpaid fines. Citizens should never give information to an unknown source.

Residents are reminded of these tips to avoid scams:

• Do not rely on caller ID. Scammers can easily spoof phone numbers.
• Be wary of urgent requests. Scammers often try to create a sense of urgency to pressure you into acting quickly. If someone calls you and says you need to pay a bill immediately, or that you're in legal trouble, hang up and call the number of the agency they claim to be representing directly.
• Never provide personal information. Scammers will often ask for information such as your Social Security number, bank account number, or credit card number. DO NOT give this information to anyone you don't know and trust.
• Don't click on links or open attachments in emails. Scammers often send emails that contain malicious links or attachments that can infect your computer with malware.
• Be suspicious of any offer that seems too good to be true. If someone calls you and offers you a free vacation or a big prize, it's probably a scam.
• Never pay for a prize. Legitimate businesses do not charge you to claim a prize.
• Do not stay on the phone with a suspected scammer. Hang up and report the call to the Federal Trade Commission (FTC). You can do this online at https://reportfraud.ftc.gov/.

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