Telephone Scam: Callers Pose as Solicitors for Manassas City Police

Scammers who claim to represent the Manassas City Police Department are targeting local residents, police say. 

Manassas City Police caution residents to ignore any callers that ask for money for public safety programs, or try to sell items. The department does not currently use any third parties to request funding, and the callers are not associated with the City of Manassas. 

A number of residents and businesses have reported getting the calls. 

According to Manassas City Police, the following are signs that someone is potentially a scam artist:

• The caller might seem impatient, pushy or rude. He or she might also be overly complimentary, try to tug on your heartstrings, or try to relate to you in a specific way through what is called forced teaming (“You’re a vet, I’m a vet – let’s help other veterans like us.”)
• The caller insists that you make a decision while he or she has you on the phone.
• The caller does not or cannot produce any written material or a website upon request.