Knoxville Police receiving several reports of scam callers using the names of KPD officers to pressure victims into giving them money.

KPD says callers often identify themselves as law enforcement officers or use the names of actual officers and use spoofed phone numbers to both disguise their real number and make it appear as if they are actually calling from a local law enforcement agency.

Officials say scammers usually threaten or intimidate victims by demanding money for bond or in lieu of an arrest with the goal of scaring victims into paying sometimes requesting gift cards or cryptocurrency.

KPD officials reminding residents that law enforcement will never call to request money or ask for financial information. Please call KPD, if you receive one of these calls.