Rhode Island, Massachusetts police departments warn of scams involving individuals impersonating police officers

The Johnston Police Department is the most recent local police department warning residents about a scam involving individuals impersonating police officers.

They have received reports of residents being contacted by scammers falsely claiming to be officers from our department.

Scam Details:

• The caller falsely claims the resident was a witness in a court case and missed a court date, resulting in a bench warrant.

• The scammer demands a large payment to clear the warrant via Bitcoin ATMs, Apple Pay, or other electronic methods.

• Scammers may also leave voicemails using the official police phone number as the caller ID, requesting the resident to call back at a different number.

Police will never request payment over the phone, ask for Bitcoin or any other electronic funds transfer methods.

If you receive a call of this nature, do not comply, hang up immediately, and contact your local police department. Remember, never provide your personal or financial information over the phone.

Several Massachusetts police departments, including those in Brookline and Bridgewater, have recently reported victims from similar scams.