The Corvallis Police Department urges residents to remain vigilant as phone scams increasingly target members of our community. These fraudulent schemes are designed to exploit victims by pressuring them into sending money under false pretenses. In the past six months members of the Corvallis community have lost over $650,000 to these malicious actors.
These fraudulent schemes are designed to exploit victims by pressuring them to send money under false pretenses. Scammers’ methods have become more sophisticated and can appear highly convincing. A common tactic is to create fear by claiming that the victim’s money or safety is at risk and demanding immediate action, such as money transfers. Many calls originate from spoofed phone numbers that appear local. Scammers often isolate victims by threatening arrest if they contact law enforcement.
One common scam involves the caller impersonating law enforcement or another government agency. The caller claims there is an arrest warrant for the victim and demands immediate payment to “resolve” the issue and avoid arrest.
Fraudsters are increasingly conducting significant research on their targets, using personal details to appear credible. In some cases, they claim the victim’s money is linked to money laundering and persuade them to transfer funds to a fake business account. Scammers may even create fictitious online profiles to enhance their legitimacy.
Scammers frequently demand non-traditional forms of payment, such as gift cards, cryptocurrency like Bitcoin, or even precious metals such as gold bullion. They often insist victims stay on the phone and avoid discussing the situation with others—tactics designed to control their target.
In addition to phone calls, scammers may initiate contact through pop-up browser windows or fraudulent emails, asking victims to click links, call phone numbers, or provide financial information.
Other reported scams involve suspects exploiting emotions such as fear, shame, or guilt, in what are often referred to as “sex-tortion” schemes. Fraudsters will initiate romantic conversation to gain personal information about victims, then demand payment or else they will share the private information with the victim’s friends and family.
The Corvallis Police Department emphasizes that no law enforcement agency will ever demand money over the phone.
Tips to Protect Yourself from Phone Scams
- Hang up immediately if you receive a suspicious call. Do not engage with the caller.
- Verify the caller’s identity independently. Use a trusted source, such as the official website, to contact the organization they claim to represent.
- Never share personal or financial information over the phone, especially with unsolicited callers. This includes account numbers, PINs, and Social Security numbers.
- Do not send money or gift cards to unknown individuals or businesses. Legitimate organizations do not request payments through these methods.
- If you receive a suspicious email or link, delete it and access your accounts directly through a trusted browser or app to check for legitimate notifications.
- Trust your instincts. If something feels off, it probably is. Consult someone you trust—especially if the caller insists you cannot discuss the situation.
- Heed warnings from your financial institution. If they caution you about a potential scam, take extra time to consult a trusted family member or law enforcement before proceeding with a transaction.
Source: Corvallis Police