Iowa police departments warn of phone scams

The Iowa City and Cedar Rapids Police Departments both posted on social media this week warning the public about common phone scams that have been popping up recently.

The post from the Cedar Rapids police says the department has received several calls recently from victims of what’s called a “grandparent scam.” This is a common scam used on older individuals. A caller claims to belong to a law enforcement agency out of town and tells the person being targeted that their grandchild is in trouble and they need money to release them, according to the post.

The scammers usually ask for money in the form of gift card numbers, wire transfers, cryptocurrency, or cash. They make the situation sound urgent so the person being called will be less likely to slow down and think through what’s happening.

“We get it. Grandparents want to help their families and these calls are very convincing. One of our victims this week lost over $10,000 in this scam. This is a crime that's preventable but it's hard to hang up on your ‘grandchild’ in their time of need,” the Cedar Rapids post reads.

The department recommends talking to family members about this scam. If you get a call claiming your grandchild is in trouble, hang up and call your grandchild directly.

The Iowa City Police Department warned this week of scam calls in which the caller claims to belong to the local police department, even using an app to make it appear that the call came from a law enforcement agency. The caller then tells the victim they have outstanding debts or fines and asks for payment, either in person or electronically.

On Sept. 25, Council Bluffs PD began receiving reports that area residents were being targeted by suspects posing as law enforcement officers to fraudulently obtain money. Report this scam: https://t.co/9el1QJ67UK pic.twitter.com/5BTwJrAcYI

— Iowa Department of Public Safety (@IowaDPS) September 29, 2023

“ICPD reminds the public that no law enforcement agency will contact someone directly and demand money. If you receive a phone call like this, please hang up immediately,” the Iowa City post states.

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