Police warn of phone scam

The Hawaii Police Department is warning the public about recent phone scams in which attempts are being made to obtain money from individuals and businesses.

In recent reports, the suspect(s) contacted the victim by phone, identifying themselves as either local, state, or federal officials, according to police. The intended victim is told that they are under criminal investigation, and must purchase Western Union, Money Gram, Money Pack, GreenDot, Apple/iTunes, Google, and/or Vanilla brand cards to pay their “fine” in order to avoid being arrested, or having their social security numbers suspended.

The suspects have been providing fictitious credentials over the phone such as their name, agency, badge number, and phone number. They will also reveal to the victim that they know the members of the victim’s family and are able to list them by name, where they live, and other personal information including specifically describing clothing that they were wearing.

The public is reminded to never provide any personal information over the phone or online to anyone whose identity they have not confirmed.

If you believe you are contacted by a person involved in a scam, either by phone or online, call the department’s nonemergency number at (808) 935-3311.