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Scammers claim to have warrant out for your arrest, trying to get Iowans’ money

Don’t be fooled by phony callers claiming to be from the Iowa Department of Criminal Investigation. Throughout the last two weeks of July, Iowans have rep...
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Don’t be fooled by phony callers claiming to be from the Iowa Department of Criminal Investigation.

Throughout the last two weeks of July, Iowans have reported getting “threatening phone calls” from people pretending to be DCI agents, according to a statement from the Iowa Department of Public Safety (DPS).  The scammers say there are active warrants issued for the victim’s arrest and that they have to pay money to keep from being arrested.

The Iowa DPS does not ask for money nor do they make threats like these.

If you get one of these scam phone calls, you are urged to contact your local police department as well as the Iowa Attorney General’s Office Hotline at 515-281-5926 or 888-777-4590.

The Iowa DPS issued the following tips and information to help you prevent getting scammed by phony callers:

  • If you get a call from someone who claims they are collecting money on behalf of the DPS—even if a caller ID device shows the DPS—hang up.
  • The DPS does not demand immediate payment via prepaid debit cards.
  • Do not provide or confirm personal information or financial information to anyone who calls.
  • You do not need to report the scam if you receive a call. However, if you lost money through the scam, report it to your local police department or sheriff’s office.

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