The Sarasota Police Department wants to remind citizens about a phone scam that is happening where a caller claims to be a member of the Sarasota Police Department soliciting donations.  The caller is also claiming that they have a warrant for the person who answered the phone unless they make payment over the phone.  Other scammers are calling asking people to pay their red light camera tickets using bitcoin currency.

This type of scam typically uses a voice over internet protocol (VoIP) number making it possible for the caller to call someone within a specified area code through the internet as if it were a local call.  Typically, these types of calls originate outside the United States.  These types of calls are difficult for law enforcement to investigate. 

The Sarasota Police Department wants to remind citizens that officers or civilians from SPD will never solicit funds over the phone or request personal financial information.  Citizens are reminded to not share any personal or financial information with these types of callers.  Citizens are encouraged to contact the Sarasota Police Department Front Desk at 941-263-6773 if they receive these types of unsolicited calls.

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