MPD Warns of Telephone Scam Spoofing Maui Police

Maui Police warn of phone scam.

The Maui Police Department has received information about a telephone scam spoofing MPD’s non-emergency phone number, 244-6400.

Police say the scammers are identifying themselves as police officers, providing a name, badge number and extension number where they can be reached.

The caller is claiming that there is a warrant of arrest for the person receiving the call, providing the person with the correct name, current address, former address and email account name, and directing them to call US Legal Support at (720) 316-0033.

When asked for an emailed copy of the warrant, the caller said the person would have to appear in court first, tomorrow as they are being named in a lawsuit and provided a case number.

Police say these calls are not being generated from the Maui Police Department.

For your safety and protection, Maui Police advise the public of the following tips:

• Be cautious when responding to callers from an unidentified phone number. Phone scammers want to remain anonymous.
• Never provide personal, confidential or financial information to an unidentified individual.
• These scammers may provide information about you that seems accurate. If you are suspicious of the Obtain as much information as you can regarding the caller including phone number, possible accent, tone and demeanor. Ask questions or ask for proper identification. Request the individual’s name, company name, and phone number.
• Be aware that today’s technology can be used to mask the caller’s phone number and the caller ID, known as “spoofing”. This makes calls appear to be originating from the company/place they are pretending to be from.
• Report suspicious activity to the police non-emergency number at (808) 244-6400 or via e-mail at crimeprevention@mpd.net. A complaint can also be filed with the Federal Trade Commission at online.