09/28/2026
DON’T GET SCAMMED: Common Phone Scam Warning Signs
Mason Police is seeing an increase in reported scams.
Scammers can sound convincing, create a sense of urgency, and even make their phone number appear legitimate. Protect yourself with these simple tips:
1. Slow down.
Scammers want you to act before you have time to think. If someone demands immediate payment or personal information, stop and verify.
2. Don’t trust caller ID.
Phone numbers can be spoofed. A call appearing to come from a police department, bank, government agency, or a family member may not actually be from them.
3. Never pay someone who demands unusual payment methods.
Be suspicious of requests for gift cards, cryptocurrency, wire transfers, cash, or payment apps; especially when the caller insists on keeping the transaction secret.
4. Never give out sensitive information over an unexpected call.
Do not provide passwords, PINs, Social Security numbers, bank information, or verification codes to an unsolicited caller.
5. Remember: Police and government agencies don't demand immediate payment over the phone.
If someone claims to be a police officer and threatens you with arrest unless you pay immediately, it is a scam.
6. Verify requests from family members.
If someone calls claiming to be a relative who needs emergency financial help, contact that person (or another trusted family member) using a phone number you already know.
7. Hang up and call back using an official number.
If you receive a suspicious call from a bank, business, government agency, or police department, independently find the organization's official phone number and call it yourself.
8. Don't press numbers or click links just because a caller tells you to.
When in doubt, hang up. You can always contact the organization directly.
9. Be suspicious of secrecy.
Scammers may tell you not to talk to your family, your bank, or law enforcement. That's a red flag.
10. If it feels wrong, trust your instincts.
You can always hang up and take time to verify the story.
Remember: A legitimate organization will not pressure you into making a rushed financial decision over the phone.
If you think you've been targeted by a scam, report it to Mason Police ASAP at (703) 993-2810.
