05/28/2026
🚨 SCAM ALERT – PLEASE SHARE 🚨
The Hartford Police Department wants to make citizens aware of a scam that is actively circulating and has recently affected someone in our area.
Scammers are calling people while posing as an FBI agent, Inspector General, or other government official and claiming that your Social Security number or financial information has been linked to money laundering or another criminal investigation. They often sound convincing and may try to scare or pressure you into acting quickly.
Recently, Hartford Police Department dealt with a situation where a victim was instructed to go to Dollar General, purchase gift cards, and read the numbers off the back over the phone.
⚠️ PLEASE REMEMBER:
No legitimate government agency—including the FBI, Social Security Administration, or Inspector General—will EVER tell you to buy gift cards or provide gift card numbers as payment or to “secure” your money.
Scammers rely on fear, urgency, and confusion to take advantage of good people.
📱 Also be aware:
Scammers have the capability to “spoof” phone numbers, meaning a call may appear on your caller ID as a local number or even resemble a legitimate agency or business. Do not assume a caller is legitimate simply because the number looks local or familiar. Be cautious and mindful of who you are speaking with before providing any information.
📬 Another important reminder:
If a legitimate government agency is investigating something that pertains to you, there will almost always be official notification through the mail or direct contact in person by a law enforcement officer or government representative with proper identification and credentials. Legitimate agencies do not typically demand immediate action, secrecy, or payment over the phone.
✅ Hartford Police Department’s advice:
• Never purchase gift cards for someone demanding payment over the phone
• Never read gift card numbers or PINs to strangers
• Be cautious of callers claiming you are under investigation or that your money is at risk
• Do not trust caller ID alone
• Buy gift cards only for loved ones and give them in person
• Verify suspicious claims before taking any action
If something doesn’t feel right, trust your instincts and verify before acting. You can always come to the Hartford Police Department and speak with an officer in person if you would like to confirm the legitimacy of a suspicious phone call.
If you think you may be dealing with a scam or have questions, contact the Hartford Police Department at (334) 588-3369 or dispatch/non-emergency at (334) 588-2222.
When in doubt—hang up, call us, and let us help.