Fake Cop Calls Included In State Police Scam Warnings

TOLLAND, CT — State Police are warning residents to be wary of a "rise" in phone scams that include people posing as cops.

"Dispatchers and troopers from around the state have been contacted by concerned citizens about unusual phone calls they have received. The phone calls are from people claiming to be from the Connecticut State Police, among other agencies or organizations," state police said in an advisory issued on Wednesday.

In some cases, scammers are asking callers to deposit a check they provide and then wire the money from that account, state police said.

In other calls, scammers insist that consumers make a decision and provide private information
immediately, state police said.

"Resist these calls by simply hanging up. Citizens need to be proactive in minimizing the chance that they will be scammed. State Police remind consumers to always follow this vital safety rule: Never, never, never provide critical private information over the phone. If the IRS, your bank or other agencies want to contact you, they will do so in writing. Your bank account numbers, Social Security Numbers and other identification numbers should be kept completely private," state police said. "Hang up on any suspicious calls."

State police said citizens may report suspicious solicitations by calling 1-877-FTC-HELP or visiting ftc.gov/complaint.