Champaign, Illinois – Champaign police are warning residents after a phone scam falsely threatened arrest.
According to the Champaign Police Department, a city resident reported receiving phone calls Tuesday from an individual claiming to be a Champaign police officer. The caller allegedly told the resident they had an outstanding warrant and demanded immediate payment to avoid arrest.
Police said the claim was false and the call was an attempted scam. No legitimate warrant existed, and the caller was not affiliated with the department.
“Champaign Police will never call to request money, especially in relation to a warrant or court proceeding,” Police Chief Timothy T. Tyler said in a public alert. He urged residents to protect their finances by remaining cautious when receiving unsolicited calls or emails and to verify a caller’s identity before making any payment.
Police noted that common impostor scams often involve callers posing as public officials or business representatives, creating urgency, or claiming a family member’s safety is at risk unless money is sent. Requests to wire money, send gift cards, or make payments over the phone or email are common red flags, police said.
Residents who receive calls claiming to be from law enforcement or other organizations are encouraged to hang up and independently contact the organization using a publicly listed phone number. Police stressed that legitimate agencies will not pressure individuals into immediate payment.
Any suspected scam calls received in Champaign can be reported to the Champaign Police Department at 217-351-4545 or submitted online at champaignil.gov/policereport.
The alert is particularly relevant for students, young workers, and commuters who may receive unsolicited calls during the workday and feel pressured to respond quickly.
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