Scammers Impersonating Cops In DuPage County: What To Know

DUPAGE COUNTY — The DuPage County Sheriff's Office (DCSO) recently issued a warning to residents amid a surge in phone scams in which the caller poses as a member of law enforcement, sometimes using real names and information to dupe their target.

The scammers may tell victims they are part of an investigation or have an outstanding arrest warrant. The caller then advises the victim that they must send payment via wire transfer, gift card, cryptocurrency or other means to avoid being taken into custody.

According to DCSO, these scams may appear to be credible, as callers will use technology to make it appear they are calling from an official number, may share actual deputy names and badge numbers and may present documents that look like official warrants.

DCSO recommends taking the following precautions to help avoid being scammed:

• Immediately hang up if you get a call that matches the above description
• Call the sheriff's office at 630-407-2400 to verify the call
• Do not share or confirm personal info or send money or other forms of payment

Residents who believe they have been targeted by scammers can report scam calls via the FTC fraud page.