Today, a Delray Beach resident called the Delray Beach Police Department to report a potential scam.  The resident said the caller identified herself as a Delray Beach police officer and there was an arrest warrant issued for the resident.  The “scammer” told the victim she could avoid arrest if she purchased a gift card. The scammer called from a phone that spoofed a Delray Beach Police Department phone number (561-243-7888). The would-be victim did not fall for the scam.    

Months ago, other residents told police they received similar calls, including people claiming they were police officers to report a fraudulent attempt to open a credit card in the victim’s name.

Please remember: the police department is not a collections agency, nor do we issue arrest warrants for non-payment. A law enforcement officer would never call or pressure you to divulge any personal information, including social security numbers or bank account information.  If you receive such a call, hang up immediately because it could be a scam. Please notify law enforcement if you think you or someone you know may have been the victim of one of these scams.