By Alex Benzegala
Panhandle Post
Police Departments across Western Nebraska have reported an increased number of scam related calls.
Scottsbluff Police Department reports that scams have included Scottsbluff Police Department phone numbers (308) 630-626* and officer names in an attempt for the scammers to convince victims that the call/text has validity.
Various reasons for the call/text are given, but it always leads to a request for money to be sent in various forms such as money transfer services or gift cards.
The scammers have used the associated phone number that will in fact connect victims to the police department if a call back is done, but the scammers will make repeated calls to victims in hopes they will answer one of their calls, so the next step in the scam can be attempted.
The Scottsbluff Police Department said in the press release that they will never request money in exchange for criminal charges being dismissed or charge for a call for service. Do not provide any personal or financial information to the callers, Sgt. Lopez of the Scottsbluff Police Department says,
If you receive a call like this, hang up the phone and call the communications center of your local police department.