New Phone Scam Threatens Arrest If People Don't Pay Up: Suffolk Police

SUFFOLK COUNTY, NY — Suffolk County police are reaching out to warn residents about a new phone scam.

According to police, the scam involves callers purporting to be from a law enforcement agency and claiming that there is a warrant for the person's arrest if money is not sent.

Detectives have been made aware of at least three incidents during which a resident was contacted by phone by a caller identifying themselves as a member of the Suffolk County Police Department, who said that they have a warrant for their arrest and for them to send money, police said.

Detectives are not aware of anyone who has given money, police said.

Those targeted report that the scammers called from what appeared to be legitimate police department phone numbers, officials said.

Scammers often use spoofing apps and other technology to falsely represent the numbers they
are calling from, police said.

Police will ever demand money in lieu of arrest or consequence, authorities said.

Those who believe they have been the victim of this, or any other scam, are asked to contact police.

To report a crime anonymously, call 1-800-220-TIPS, utilize a mobile app which can be
downloaded through the App Store or Google Play by searching P3 Tips, or online at www.P3Tips.com. You may be eligible for a reward of up to $5,000 if your tip results in
an arrest, police said.