SMITHFIELD, Va. (WAVY) — The Smithfield Police Department is warning residents about a scam.
Police said they have received reports from residents about charity organization they consider “questionable.”
The National Police Association claims to assist law enforcement families, however, the organization’s legitimacy cannot be verified, according to police.
Smithfield police want citizens to know that it is not associated with the group and does not endorse or authorize any mailings from them.
Some of the warning signs of a scam include:
- Telephone calls requesting payments or donations by gift card, wire transfer, or cryptocurrency
- Scammers generally pressure you to act immediately
- Always research any charity, look up their ratings to find out if they have any complaints against them as being fraudulent.
The Smithfield Police Depart advises residents to report scams to the Federal Trade Commission.