Receiving Strange Calls? Here’s What to Know in Richland

Listen up Washington residents! Don't be a victim to the latest phone scam making the rounds.

The Richland Police Department Has Received Multiple Reports of Scam Calls

The male caller is contacting people from a blocked number and pretends to be a sergeant, deputy, or attorney with one of our local departments.

Calls from blocked numbers claiming to be police or attorneys should be treated as suspicious.[/pullquotes]

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The caller claims that you owe a fine and goes on to thereaten you with a warrant for your arrest if you don't immediately pay a fine.

The Most Common Excuse Is That You've Missed Jury Duty.

In some cases, the scammer will pressure a resident to wire money from an ATM or will send a payment link to your phone to transfer money.

These Are Scammers Attempting to Steal Your Money

• Law enforcement and courts do NOT call anyone demanding immediate payment.

• Law enforcement and courts will NEVER ask you to pay a fine, pay a warrant, or pay bail using gift cards, wire transfers, ATMS, or using any payment links.

Calls from blocked numbers claiming to be police or attorneys should be treated as suspicious.

What You Need to Do If You Receive a Call From a Blocked Number

• Hang up immediately.
• Do NOT click on any links. Do NOT send money.
• Never share your personal or banking information.

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Contact your local Police Department directly to report the suspicious call.