LANCASTER, Pa. — The Lancaster Bureau of Police issued a warning to residents after receiving reports of a suspected phone scam in its jurisdiction.
According to police, scammers are impersonating Lancaster Police Chief Richard Mendez, calling potential victims claiming to be from Homeland Security, and giving a false badge and case number.
"These scammers can make it look like they are calling from our station number (717-735-3300), the police department said. "If you receive a suspicious phone call, hang up immediately."
Police said those who believe they received a scam call can report them to the police department or county dispatch at 717-664-1180.
"Remember, we will NEVER call you to ask for payment over the phone nor ask you to meet for payments to make legal matters go away," the police department said.
Police offered the following tips to protect yourself from phone scams:
- Do Not Share Personal Information: Never give out personal, financial, or any sensitive information over the phone to unknown callers.
- Do Not Meet Strangers: Do not agree to meet anyone at undisclosed or unfamiliar locations based on a phone call.
- Verify the Caller: If you receive a suspicious call, hang up and contact the organization directly using a verified phone number.
- Report Suspicious Activity: If you receive such a call, report it to your police department immediately.
