(KRON) -- The City of Santa Rosa issued a public warning following a reported uptick in phone scams where callers will pretend to be Federal agents and demand money.
"In these schemes, the caller tells the victim that they have been selected to help with a confidential investigation, surveillance operation, or 'sting,'" city officials said. "The victim is told their cooperation is urgently needed, sworn to secrecy, and then directed to move or hand over money, often by withdrawing cash, purchasing gift cards or precious metals, wiring funds, or transferring money to a cryptocurrency account."
Officials said the scammers will sometimes use real agency names, fake badge numbers, spoofed caller ID or send official-looking documents via text or email.
City officials urged the public to remember that law enforcement will never:
Officials also said to never hand cash or money over to someone coming to your home claiming to represent a government agency.
"Recent scams have included placing money into rideshare vehicles or couriers as a means to deliver the money," city officials reported.
If you think you may be talking to a scammer, don't engage and hang up, and talk to someone you trust before handing over any money.
"Victims should not feel embarrassed to come forward," city officials said. "These schemes are professionally run and designed to deceive, and prompt reporting can sometimes help recover funds."
If you believe you have been contacted by one of these scammers, or if you have already sent money, contact the Santa Rosa Police Department at 707-528-5222.
