Scam Alert. (Credit: CrimewatchPA)
The Pennsylvania State Police (PSP) is alerting residents about a series of fraudulent phone calls in which scammers are impersonating law enforcement officers. These calls, which appear to come from official PSP station phone numbers, falsely identify the caller as a Pennsylvania State Police Lieutenant.
Once on the line, scammers use intimidation tactics, claiming the recipient owes fines or faces legal trouble, and pressure victims to make immediate payments. In some cases, they demand money through prepaid gift cards, a common red flag in scam activity.
What You Need to Know
- PSP will never call to demand payment. The department does not collect fines, nor does it request money to resolve criminal charges.
- Gift cards are not a form of payment. No legitimate government agency or law enforcement organization would ever ask for them.
- Be cautious of caller ID. Scammers can “spoof” phone numbers, making it look like a call is coming from a trusted source when it is not.
Protect Yourself
- Do not share personal or financial information over the phone.
- If you receive a suspicious call, hang up immediately.
- If you have already provided money, gift card information, or sensitive details, contact your local police department right away.
- The PSP is actively investigating these incidents and urges Pennsylvanians to stay alert.
For verified information about the Pennsylvania State Police, visit psp.pa.gov
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