Indiana State Police warn Hoosiers about phone scammers portraying to be police
Mar. 10—While the Indiana State Police receive dozens of reports of phone scams every year, they are warning Hoosiers about one particular scam where the phone number reads the same as the Indiana State Police General Headquarters.
According to a press release from the ISP, the scammer is using a caller ID displaying Indiana State Police with 317-232-8248. They then identify themselves as an ISP Trooper, saying the person they have reached has had their identity compromised or stolen. The scammer then asks for personal information to verify they are speaking to the same person.
The press release says the ISP does not cold call people and ask for personal or financial information. They would like to remind all citizens that phone scammers are persuasive, convincing and technically savvy, and scammers will often play on emotions and fears to get your personal information and money.
The easiest way to protect yourself from phone scams is to ignore unsolicited calls from unknown callers or hang up when something does not seem right. If you believe you have been a victim of a phone scam, immediately report the incident to your local law enforcement agency. If you have provided bank details or information, alert your bank as soon as possible so the payment can be stopped.
Never give out personal information such as date of birth, social security number or bank/credit card numbers. The ISP says many of these scammers want victims to make a hasty decision and may pressure you to get your personal information and/or money.
"It is important for everyone to talk to their family about these phone scams and to have a plan in place should a scammer call you or someone you love," the ISP says in the press release. "Being aware of potential scams is a great first step in protecting yourself from falling victim to one."
