Redwood City police warn of phone scam from people posing as law enforcement

The Redwood City Police Department is warning residents of a telephone scam involving calls from people posing as law enforcement who request money via cash apps or gift cards. 

Police said that they had received numerous calls of complaints from residents reporting they have been victims of such a scam after suspects have allegedly called residents to tell them they have failed to appear for jury duty and that if they don’t pay a fine, an arrest warrant will be issued for them.

The suspects claim to be from the San Mateo County Sheriff’s Office, the Redwood City Police Department, or other law enforcement agencies.

The suspects will use fake phone numbers that appear legitimate or local. They request payment via cash apps or gift cards.
 
The police department reminds residents that if they receive a call demanding payment for missing jury duty, do not make any payments.

If you have been a victim of this scam, please check any accounts associated with the cash app used to make sure your financial accounts have not been compromised.