Police warn of scam spoofing the department phone number & email
Detectives are investigating a phone scam where the caller identified themselves as being from the Santa Cruz Police Department demanding the victim to pay money or get arrested.
According to police, the caller ID listed on the victim’s phone said the Santa Cruz Police dispatch center non-emergency line number 831-471-1131.
“This number was falsified using app-based technology to “spoof” or alter the Caller ID,” the Santa Cruz Police spokeswoman, Joyce Blaschke said.
The scammer reportedly told the victim the police department had a warrant for their arrest and if they didn’t pay they would be arrested for their “crimes.”
Police said scammers are also sending emails from a Gmail account with a fake violation letter using SCPD logos.
The Santa Cruz Police Department said officers do not call asking for money. If you receive a call from any agency requesting money it is a scam.
“Anytime that a person receives a call and is asked in any way to send money you should immediately be suspicious. Never provide personal or financial information over the phone,” said Blaschke.
The public can help combat this scam by doing the following:
– Do not call back and hang up if you are talking to them.
– Call the police department directly from a verified phone number when in doubt of a solicitation.
– Contact the Santa Cruz County Court directly to inquire about any outstanding warrant, bail or fine payment.
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