Warwick Police Warn Residents Not To Fall For Spoofing Scam

WARWICK TOWNSHIP, PA — The Warwick Township Police Department is warning residents not to fall for a scam that is spoofing the police department's caller ID and phone number.

On March 18, police said a resident reported receiving a call from the police department that seemed suspicious. According to the resident, the voice sounded automated. Becoming concerned, the resident ended the phone call.

A police officer verified that the caller ID and phone number belonged to the department. However there is no internal record of the agency making the call. "And we do not use automation," said police.

Spoofing is when scammers manipulate the caller ID to display a legitimate-looking phone number associated with law enforcement agencies, making the call appear authentic and urgent and prompting the recipient to answer.

"The scammers often use fear and intimidation as tools," said police. "They may assert that the individual is under investigation or that there is a warrant for their arrest. By creating a sense of panic and urgency, the scammers aim to prevent the victim from thinking critically and thoroughly assessing the situation."

"Never give out personal information such as your social security number, bank account details, or passwords over the phone, especially if you did not initiate the call," police said. "Politely hang up the call and contact the police department directly using a number you've verified independently."

Be wary of urgency, police added. "Scammers often create a sense of urgency to make you react without thinking. If you're unsure after the call, visit your local police station or contact them through official channels. If you suspect the call was a scam, report it to your local police department."