Fort Wayne, IN – Fort Wayne police are warning residents today to stay alert as phone scams continue to cost victims thousands of dollars across northeast Indiana, according to a public advisory from the Fort Wayne Police Department.
According to the Fort Wayne Police Department, scammers often use similar tactics — fake prizes, threats of arrest, and urgent payment demands — to pressure victims into acting quickly before they have time to verify the call.
Police say one of the most common red flags is a caller claiming the recipient has won a prize or lottery but must pay fees or taxes to receive it. “If you have to pay to get a prize, it’s not a prize,” officials warned.
Another frequent tactic involves impersonating law enforcement or federal agencies. Scammers may claim you will be arrested, fined, or deported if you don’t immediately pay taxes or debts. Police stress that real law enforcement agencies do not call people to threaten arrest or demand payment over the phone.
Residents are also urged not to feel rushed. Legitimate businesses typically allow time to review offers and provide written documentation. Scammers, by contrast, pressure victims to decide immediately.
Authorities say payment demands are a major warning sign. Scammers often insist on wire transfers, gift cards, cryptocurrency, or payment apps — methods that are difficult or impossible to recover. Anyone who demands payment only through these methods is likely committing fraud.
Police also emphasized that government agencies will never call unexpectedly to request sensitive information such as Social Security numbers. Calls claiming to be from agencies like the IRS or Social Security Administration asking for personal details are scams.
Fort Wayne police also remind residents that unsolicited robocalls or sales calls may be illegal, especially if the number is listed on the National Do Not Call Registry.
Anyone who believes they’ve been targeted or victimized is encouraged to report the incident and learn more at reportfraud.ftc.gov.
This article was produced by a journalist and may include AI-assisted input. All content is reviewed for accuracy and fairness.
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