WENHAM – Police Chief Kevin DiNapoli warns residents of an ongoing phone call scam whereby callers allege that they are raising donations on behalf of the Wenham Police Department.
The department is currently not seeking donations and advises residents to ignore any such phone calls.
“A good way to determine the veracity of an unsolicited phone call is to ask for an organization name and a call-back number,” Chief DiNapoli said. “If the caller refuses to provide that information, it means that the call is most likely a scam. If you’re in any doubt, simply hang up and contact the Police Department.”
“We’re proud of the support that we’ve received to date from the Wenham community, and we will continue to ensure that any fundraisers we hold are both transparent and well-advertised,” Chief DiNapoli said.
To avoid falling victim to phone call scams, Wenham Police recommend that residents follow these tips as outlined by the Federal Trade Commission (FTC):
- Don’t answer calls from unknown numbers. Let them go to voicemail.
- If you answer and the caller (often a recording) asks you to hit a button to stop receiving calls, hang up. Scammers often use these tricks to identify, and then target, live respondents.
- If you receive a scam call, write down the number and file a complaint with the FTC.
- Ask your phone service provider if it offers a robocall blocking service. You can also visit the FTC’s website for information and resources on available robocall blocking tools to help reduce unwanted calls.
- Consider registering all of your telephone numbers in the National Do Not Call Registry. Access the registry online or by calling 1-888-382-1222.
These scams can also be reported to the FTC at 877-382-4357. Anyone who has questions or concerns, or believes they are the victim of a scam, is asked to contact the Wenham Police Department at (978) 468-4000.