Scammers Targeting Lower Merion Residents: Police

LOWER MERION TOWNSHIP, PA — Police in Lower Merion Township are warning residents of scammers who are targeting local residents.

Authorities said these scammers may claim to “urgently” require “legal information” that needs to be provided to Lower Merion Police. They may also threaten targets with “arrest” for missing jury duty, police said.

In addition to the overt threat of arrest, the caller may also threaten to levy a large fine, according to police.

These crooks, police said, aim to frighten targets into paying the “large fine” to avoid arrest.

The originating number may appear to be from the Lower Merion Police Department, or another local agency, police said.

The caller may identify themselves with the name of a current police officer, and may often the caller attach a rank or assignment to their name such as sergeant, detective, special agent, or other ranks, according to authorities.

Police urge anyone who gets such a call to hang up and contact Lower Merion Police at 610-649-1000 or by calling 911. Do not call the initial number back, police said.

Lower Merion Police said authorities do not serve warrants over the phone, or demand immediate payment for outstanding warrants, tickets, subpoenas, or traffic violations.

“We do not collect monies on behalf of the courts over the phone, either,” police said.

Additionally, police will never demand social security information, bank account numbers, bank card, electronic payment, or social media information over the phone.

Lastly, police will not demand that confirmation of demographics or other personal details over the phone unless they are engaging in a follow-up call, in which both parties know each other.

“If we need personal information from you, we will clearly explain the reason and offer you the chance to call us back and confirm our identity prior to providing any potentially incriminating information,” police said.

Anyone with questions about the scams or who has concerns over a suspicious phone call should contact Lower Merion Police at 610-649-1000 or via 911.