SJPD says scammers are spoofing its non-emergency number to demand payments

ST. JOSEPH, Mo. (KQTV) -- The St. Joseph Police Department said scammers are falsely identifying themselves as police officers by spoofing its non-emergency number to demand payments from residents.

SJPD issued a warning through a Facebook post telling residents that scammers are disguising, or "spoofing," their real numbers for the department's non-emergency number, which is 816-271-4777.

The caller may claim a resident has a warrant out for their arrest, they've missed jury duty and an immediate payment is required to avoid their arrest.

Payments are often demanded through cash, gift cards, cryptocurrency or payment apps.

SJPD said it will never call and demand payment over the phone to clear a warrant or arrest.

The Department said residents should hang up immediately, do not provide personal or financial information, do not send money or gift cards and contact SJPD directly at ts non-emergency line if they receive a call.