08/20/2026
COMMUNITY ALERT: PHONE SCAM IMPERSONATING ALGONA POLICE
The Algona Police Department has been made aware of a recent phishing scam involving an individual falsely identifying himself as the Chief of Police.
In this incident, the caller contacted an elderly woman and told her she was somehow involved in a case. The caller claimed he would help her, but instructed her not to tell anyone about the conversation. He also possessed some of her personal information, including her bank account number, and asked questions about her account balances and other financial assets.
The caller also used caller ID spoofing technology, which made it appear that the call was coming from the Algona Police Department’s actual phone number. Please understand that a familiar or legitimate-looking phone number on your caller ID does not necessarily mean the call is actually coming from that number.
Thankfully, the woman became suspicious and came to the Algona Police Department to verify the caller’s claims.
Please remember:
Algona Police Department officers will identify themselves and can provide a badge number.
We will never ask you to provide personal banking or financial account information over the phone.
If we need to speak with you regarding an investigation or case, we will typically do so in person, often at the police station.
A request to keep a police matter secret from family, friends, or others should be treated as a major warning sign.
Scammers can obtain personal information from a variety of sources. A caller knowing your name, bank information, or other personal details does not mean the caller is legitimate.
If you receive a suspicious call from someone claiming to be with the Algona Police Department, do not provide any personal or financial information. Hang up and contact the Algona Police Department directly using a trusted phone number to verify the call.
Please share this information with family members, friends, neighbors, and especially older adults who may be targeted by these types of scams.
Thank you and stay safe!