Scammers Posing As Temple University Police Officers Over Phone

PHILADELPHIA — Temple University’s Department of Public Safety is warning the school's community of a police officer impersonation scam.

According to officials, Temple University Police Department officers the morning of Aug. 31 were told two parents received a call from a 215 area code phone number from someone claiming to be a Temple Police Officer, saying their child had been arrested.

Officials said the caller told parents they needed to send money via Apple Pay or cash app for their children to be released.

Both parents knew this to be a scam, did not send any money, and confirmed the well-being of their sons, authorities said.

The two incidents are under investigated.

Temple authorities urge the community to be aware that Temple University Police and Detectives will never call a guardian or parent and request money or funds to release their child.

Anyone who suspects they are being targeted by such a scam should verify the caller, hang up and contact local police using a trusted phone number to confirm the caller’s identity.

Temple students or guardians who receive these calls should immediately call the Temple University Police Department at 215-204-1234 to file a report.