Police warn public about phone scammers impersonating officers

Hawai‘i Police Department is warning the public about a widespread phone scam in which callers falsely identify themselves as police officers.

The fraudsters are using names of actual department personnel and claiming the recipient owes money for missed court appearances or outstanding warrants.

“Scammers are constantly changing their tactics and Hawai‘i Police Department is committed to spreading awareness so members of our community can protect themselves,” said Kona Patrol Sgt. Thomas Chun-Ming in the department’s announcement, noting Hawai‘i Police Department has issued five media releases in the past year about phone scams.

In an attempt to lend credibility to their claims, scammers might provide fraudulent documents that appear legitimate.

They also employ a tactic called “spoofing,” which manipulates caller ID information to make it seem as though the call is coming from a real police station.

Victims are pressured to make payments using untraceable methods such as gift cards.

Hawai‘i Police Department emphasizes that it never requests payment via telephone and never asks for gift cards as a form of payment.

“To protect yourself, never share personal or financial information with unsolicited callers,” Chun-Ming said.

He added that if someone claiming to be law enforcement demands payment of any kind, hang up immediately and call Hawai‘i Police Department directly at 808-935-3311 to verify the claim.

The department also offered the following tips to protect yourself from phone scams:

Verify the caller’s identity

• ASK FOR THE CALLER’S full name, badge number and contact information. Legitimate officers will provide this without hesitation. Always verify their credentials using contact information found on official department websites or public directories.

Never share personal information

• DO NOT DISCLOSE your Social Security number, bank account details, credit card numbers or other sensitive data via the telephone unless you are certain the caller is legitimate.

Be wary about urgent or threatening tactics

• Scammers often create a false sense of urgency, threatening arrest or legal consequences to pressure victims into immediate action. PAUSE, STAY CALM AND VERIFY the information independently.

Spread awareness

• SHARE THIS WARNING with friends, family and especially vulnerable people. Raising awareness is one of the most effective ways to prevent these scams.

If you think you were targeted or fell victim to such a scam, contact your nearest police station or call Hawai‘i Police Department’s non-emergency number at 808-935-3311.

Victims also are encouraged to file a report at the Federal Trade Commission website.