MANASSAS, Va. — Someone is using the telephone to harass residents of Manassas and Prince William County falsely stating he’s raising money for the Manassas Police Department.
But officials said the department is not making these calls, and it does not hire third-party fundraisers to garner cash for its police officers.
The calls sound like this:
– The caller seems impatient, pushy or rude. He or she might also be overly complimentary, try to tug on your heartstrings, or try to relate to you in a specific way through what is called forced teaming (“You’re a vet, I’m a vet – let’s help other veterans like us.”)
– The caller insists that you make a decision while he or she has you on the phone.
– The caller does not or cannot produce any written material or a website upon request.
City officials said the calls should be ignored, and if Manassas police decide to use a third-party fundraiser in the future, the department will put out a notice. They also provided the following tips:
– Never give out your personal or financial information over the phone if you did not initiate the call.
– Remember, if a deal seems too good to be true, it probably is.
– The easiest way to avoid becoming a victim is to hang up the phone and report the incident to local Police on the non-emergency line (City of Manassas non-emergency – 703-257-8000).
For more information on ways you can avoid falling victim to phone scams, visit manassascity.org/police.
