The Arkansas State Police is warning residents about a scam in which callers falsely claim to be officers with the Internet Crimes Against Children Task Force.
Authorities said several Arkansans have reported receiving calls from individuals identifying themselves as “Officer Jackson” with ICAC, requesting a return call regarding an alleged investigation. In some instances, callers have left callback numbers, and at least one person reported being threatened with a warrant if they did not respond.
Officials said the calls are fraudulent and are part of a common intimidation tactic used in scams.
The Arkansas ICAC Task Force and state police do not contact individuals to notify them that they are under investigation or request return calls related to investigative matters. Law enforcement agencies also do not threaten arrest over the phone or demand immediate compliance, officials said.
“These scammers are exploiting the public’s trust in law enforcement to intimidate and deceive,” said ASP Director Col. Mike Hagar. “The Arkansas State Police will never call to announce an investigation or threaten arrest over the phone. We want Arkansans to stay vigilant, protect their personal information, and report suspicious calls immediately.”
Authorities are urging anyone who receives a call of this nature to hang up immediately and avoid sharing any personal information.
Residents are encouraged to report suspicious calls to their local law enforcement agency, the Arkansas State Police or the Arkansas Attorney General’s Office at 501-682-2007 or by email at [email protected].
