The Kokomo Police Department is investigating complaints concerning a phone scam occurring in Kokomo.

The department is issuing a public service announcement warning citizens about a phishing phone scam. A phishing scam is to extort money. Alarmingly, the scammer can have a fake name or number show on your caller ID to convince you. In these complaints, the scammer has identified themselves to be a member of the Kokomo Police Department.

Once the victim answers the phone, the scammer informs the victim that there is a warrant for their arrest. The scammer instructs the victim in order to keep from being arrested, the scammer instructs the victim to purchase gold from a local business or to take out a large sum of cash from their personal account. The scammer asks to meet the victim at a location to exchange the gold or cash to keep from being arrested.

How to avoid being scammed:

Never agree to meet someone at a strange address, especially someone who calls and demands cash payment.

Offer to provide proof of their legitimacy.

If you suspect a call is a scam, hang up immediately.

To report fraud or a suspected scam, contact your local authorities or the Federal Trade Commission at ReportFraud.ftc.gov.