Seekonk Police warn residents about phone scam
By Jennifer Petracca
Seekonk Police are warning the public about a phone scam in which the caller pretends to be the IRS and then a member of police.
The scammer called a resident and identified himself as working for the IRS, telling the victim to drive to the bank to pay a debt. The caller disconnected the call once the victim asked to speak to a police officer.
The victim told police that the phone rang again, showing the number for Seekonk Police on the caller ID. The caller identified himself as a ranking Seekonk Police Officer by name. He told the victim there was a warrant out for her arrest and if she did not go to the bank with cash and deposit it into a specific account, she would be arrested.
Scammers are using a technique called “Caller ID Spoofing” which allows them to show any number on the caller ID.
Police say anyone who receives a call like this should disconnect immediately. If there is ever a question about a law enforcement officer, police ask that you contact your local police department and ask for an officer to respond to your house.
© WLNE-TV 2015
