Fayetteville Police warn residents about scammers posing as law enforcement officers

The Fayetteville Police Department is warning the community of phone scammers posing as members of the police department. 

The department has received several reports from citizens of being targeted by scammers posing to hold various ranks including sergeant, detective or major. Some may also use the names of actual officers to make their calls appear legitimate. 

According to the Fayetteville Police Department, the scammer's voicemail could sound like, "This is Sgt. [Name] with the Fayetteville Police Department. I’m looking to make contact with one [Mr./Mrs. Name]. I’ve got some confidential legal matters that need your immediate attention. Just give us a call back at 910-*-**. Thank you.”

If you call back, the voicemail may say, “This is Sgt. [Name] with the Fayetteville Police Department. If this is an emergency, hang up and dial 911. If not, leave your name, number, and a brief message, and I will get back to you. Thank you.”

Once connected, Fayetteville police said the scammers will attempt to pressure people into providing monetary payments or gift cards to avoid legal consequences.

The Fayetteville Police Department reminds people that the department would never ask for money, gift cards, or other forms of payment to avoid legal consequences or imprisonment. 

The department also said scammers may often change the names, ranks and phone numbers they use to make the scheme seem more legitimate. 

If anyone is unsure about the validity of a phone call, the Fayetteville Police Department urges people to contact the department directly to verify the officer in question. They also ask that the community continue to spread the word about these phone scams to help protect their friends family and neighbors from falling victim.