BURNSVILLE, Minn. — Burnsville police are warning residents of a phone scam that hits close to home, with the crooks impersonating one of their own.
In a press release sent out Friday, Burnsville PD says the department has received "numerous calls" from the public reporting that scammers have called or left voice messages using the names of sergeants who are actually on the force. The caller states that they have confidential information on the victim, who has missed a court appearance and to make good that person needs to pay fines and fees using prepaid gift cards.
Police say the scammers appear to be targeting people in the medical field, and have so far convinced two victims to actually buy the gift cards. In both cases, the crooks demand that victims stay on the phone while they purchase the cards and read the numbers to activate them.
Burnsville PD says this case is a good reminder to not return these calls, give out personal information or make payments over the phone. They also say the department will NEVER require people to pay fines or fees using gift cards or money orders.
If a member of the community receives one of these scam calls they can report it to Burnsville police during business hours at 952-895-4600, or call 911 anytime.
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