Providence, RI – Authorities are warning Rhode Island residents to be on alert after reports surfaced of a phone scam involving callers falsely posing as members of the Rhode Island State Police.
According to a statement from the Rhode Island State Police shared Friday, residents have reported receiving phone calls in which scammers claim to represent law enforcement and demand payment for fines. Officials stressed that the agency will never request money over the phone under any circumstances.
Police urged residents who receive such calls to immediately hang up and disregard the message. Scammers often use intimidation tactics, warning individuals of potential legal trouble if they fail to comply with the payment request. The department said these fraudulent calls are designed to pressure residents into giving out sensitive information or making financial transfers.
Authorities are reminding the public to remain cautious when receiving unsolicited calls, particularly when money or personal information is requested. Residents should never provide payment details, Social Security numbers, or banking information to unknown callers.
State police encouraged anyone who encounters this scam to report the incident to local law enforcement and to warn family members, particularly older adults, who may be more vulnerable to such tactics.
Law enforcement officials continue to investigate the origin of the calls but emphasized that the best defense is public awareness. “If you receive such a scam call, hang up immediately and disregard it,” the department’s statement read.
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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