Geneva police warn about scam calls involving department’s phone number

Geneva police are warning people about a scam in which the department’s phone number is being spoofed, making the calls appear legitimate.

The caller pretends to be a Geneva police officer and tells people that a package containing drugs has been intercepted. The caller says a warrant for their arrest has been issued, and they may be victims of identity theft. The caller then requests financial information to resolve the matter.

When recipients questioned the caller, they were threatened with yelling and profanity, according to a news release from police.

On Thursday, Geneva police received reports of 11 such calls after recipients contacted the department to verify the scam calls.

The release said the department does not make unsolicited phone calls demanding financial information. These calls are a scam, and people should not provide any confidential information. It also suggested that, in general, you should not give financial information to anyone who makes an unsolicited phone call.

To verify the legitimacy of a call claiming to be from the police, call the department at (630) 232-4736. Contact the police if you fall victim to the scam.

You can also file online reports with the Federal Trade Commission at reportfraud.ftc.gov and the FBI’s Internet Crime Complaint Center at ic3.gov.