SHAWANO, WI – The Shawano Police Department is alerting the community to a recent spike in scam phone calls that have been flooding the local dispatch center. Officers say callers are posing as law enforcement officials, falsely claiming individuals have active warrants or demanding payment to avoid arrest. Police stress that this is not how legitimate law enforcement agencies operate.
Authorities are reminding residents not to rely solely on caller ID, as scammers can “spoof” phone numbers to make calls appear as though they are coming from trusted sources. Officials add that no government office, bank, or utility company will demand immediate payment, gift cards, wire transfers, or sensitive personal information over the phone.
Law enforcement says scammers often try to create a sense of fear and urgency to pressure people into acting quickly. Instead, residents are encouraged to pause, hang up, and verify the caller by contacting the organization directly using a trusted phone number. Talking with a family member or friend before taking any action can also help prevent falling victim to a scam.
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