Attention residents of East Texas! Tyler Police Department has just announced a phone scam pretending to be Tyler PD and asking for donations.

Public Information Officer Donald Martin from the Tyler Police Department issued a press release this morning about phone scammer posing as Tyler Police Department representatives and asking for a donation to the organization.

The Better Business Bureau notified the Police Department about local residents receiving calls requesting donations. Tyler PD wants to make it clear that the Tyler  Police Department "WILL NOT SOLICIT ANY FUNDS OVER THE PHONE!"  If you receive a phone call about this matter, just hang up.

These scammers will tell you they are representatives of the police, fire department, or the military, but will give very little detail. When asking for money they might come off as pushy or aggressive with their approach.

If you are unsure about the phone call, you should ask these questions to make sure they are a legitimate organization:

  • Request more information about the company which they represent
  • Inquire how the funds will be used
  • Always research the company

If you have any further questions or concerns you can call the Tyler Police Department at (903) 521-1072.

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