The Bangor Police Department is alerting the public to an ongoing phone scam in which fraudsters are “spoofing” the department’s official phone number to make it appear as though calls are coming directly from law enforcement.
According to the department, scammers are using fear-based tactics, falsely telling residents they have active warrants for their arrest or have missed jury duty obligations. The goal is to pressure victims into immediate payment, often demanding gift cards or other untraceable forms of payment to “resolve” the alleged issues.
Officials emphasized that legitimate law enforcement agencies do not notify people of warrants or missed jury duty over the phone in this manner, nor do they request payment via gift cards.
Even if someone does have an outstanding warrant or missed a jury summons, the department stressed that these matters cannot be “cleared up” by sending money over the phone.
What to Do If You Receive a Suspicious Call
- Hang up immediately
- Do not engage with the caller or provide any personal information, money, or gift card details
- Verify independently
If you’re concerned about a possible warrant or jury duty notice, contact the Bangor Police Department directly using the non-emergency line rather than calling back the number that appeared on your caller ID. Report the scam. Anyone who believes they may have been targeted or victimized should contact the Bangor Police Department at 207-947-7382.
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