OCEANSIDE–The Oceanside Police Department is investigating scams where individuals are impersonating both federal and local law enforcement agencies.
Recently a victim was called by a suspect claiming to be from the Social Security Administration and told there was a warrant out for their arrest. The caller also claimed they were working with the Oceanside Police Department to arrest them. The caller gave the Oceanside Police Department’s correct address and phone number for the victim to verify on the internet. The victim verified the information and believed it to be true. The victim was directed to withdraw a large sum of money and buy Macy’s gift cards to secure the bail on the warrant. Once the numbers on the gift cards were given to the suspect over the phone the money was immediately depleted from the cards.
Most people will claim they would never fall for such a scam. However, in 2019 scams reported to the Oceanside Police Department totaled approximately 2 million dollars in losses; many but not all of the victims were over the age of 65.
No law enforcement agency either federal, state, or local will call and ask for money to clear a warrant. No legitimate person will call and ask for payment in gift cards. If they do, IT’S A SCAM!
Authorities are asking the community’s support in spreading the word in thwarting this financial crime targeting the community.
Authorities urge the public to contact their local law enforcement agencies and ask questions before falling for these scams.
