HomeMy WebLinkAboutNR083019KPDwarnspublicofphonescamTHE COUNTY OF KAUA'I
DEREK S. K. KAWAKAMI, MAYOR
mqa MICHAEL A. DAHILIG, MANAGING DIRECTOR
C OF
News Release
For Immediate Release: August 30, 2019
KAUA`I POLICE DEPARTMENT
TODD G. RAYBUCK, CHIEF
Tel (808) 241-1600
Fax (808) 241-1604
KPD warns public of phone scam
LIHU`E — Kaua`i police are warning the public to be aware of a telephone scammer who
is impersonating a KPD officer and is soliciting payments for outstanding warrants.
According to a recent report, the call came from what appeared to be KPD's non -
emergency dispatch line, 241-1711. The person on the phone said they were from the Kauai
Police Department and there was an outstanding warrant for their arrest. The caller continued to
ask questions about the person's banking information, and asked them to pay for the warrant
over the phone.
Kauai police have confirmed that this is a scam, and the department does not operate in
this manner.
"If someone calls you and demands for money on behalf of the Kauai Police
Department, hang up immediately. KPD does not solicit or accept money over the phone," said
Lihu`e District Commander Scott Brede. "Scammers are getting more advanced by using
familiar phone numbers. That's why it's important to stay vigilant and if you suspect a scam,
please call police directly and make an official report."
Residents are reminded to use the following scam prevention tips:
• Do not answer or return calls from unknown numbers.
• Use caution when responding to unsolicited calls or e-mails, or unknown individuals
on social networking sites.
• Check your bank, credit card, and phone statements regularly. If you see an
unknown or unauthorized charge, immediately notify your bank or service provider.
• If it sounds too good to be true, it usually is.
• Senior citizens are popular targets for scam artists as they tend to be more trusting
of unknown individuals. Responsible family members should help to keep them safe.
If you suspect a scam, please call the Kauai Police Department at 241-1711 and file an
official police report.