A scam targeting Iowans involving people misrepresenting the Iowa Department of Public Safety Division of Criminal Investigation has been reported. The DCI is warning Iowans of the scam. In the last two weeks citizens have received threatening phone calls from people posing as employees of the department. The scammers claim there is an active arrest warrant and then demand money to avoid being arrested. The DCI and the entire Iowa Department of Public Safety advises all divisions will never ask for money or make such threats.

If you receive a similar phone call contact the Iowa Attorney General’s Office hotline at (888)777-4590 or (515) 281-5926.

Tips to prevent being targeted by fraudulent calls:
– If you get a call from someone claiming they are collecting money on behalf of the Department of Public Safety (even if caller ID shows the DPS) hang up.
– The DPS does not demand immediate payment via prepaid debit cards.
– Do not provide or confirm personal information or financial information to anyone who calls.
– If you lost money through the scam report it to your local police department or sheriff’s office.