LUFKIN, Texas — The Lufkin Police Department is urging individuals to be on the lookout after a Houston-area man was scammed $2,500 by an impersonating police officer on Tuesday.
According to the press release, the man was contacted by an individual claiming to be Lt. Mike Shurley representing the Lufkin Police Department.
The scammer told the man he, "failed to appear on a summons and demanded $2,500 in gift cards to prevent a warrant for the man's arrest," officials said.
This same incident happened to a Sugarland woman, but she ended up not paying the scammer.
The Lufkin Police Department is urging the community to remain vigilant when receiving suspicious calls claiming to be law enforcement.
If you suspect you are involved in a scam, consider the following procedures:
- Verify the caller's identity: Ask for the caller's full name and organization they represent
- Don't share personal details: It is not advised to provide sensitive information over the phone
- Report the incident: If you believe you are involved in a scam, you are urged to contact your local police department
- Warn others: If the scam is validated, share this information with others to help prevent others from following suit
Lufkin city officials want to remind community members that law enforcement will not request sensitive information over the phone.
"Scammers often use intimidation tactics or claim there's an urgent matter to trick individuals into providing personal information or money," officials said.