Everett, WA — The Everett Police Department is warning residents about a growing number of scams involving individuals impersonating government officials, including law enforcement and federal agencies.
According to officials, scammers may contact victims by phone, text, email, or even appear in person, falsely claiming to represent agencies such as the IRS, Social Security Administration, or local police departments. These fraudsters often use fear and urgency to pressure people into compliance.
Police say common scam tactics include:
-
Threatening arrest, fines, or loss of government benefits
-
Claiming a warrant can be “cleared” by making a payment
-
Demanding payment through gift cards, wire transfers, cryptocurrency, or cashier’s checks
-
Pressuring victims to open new bank accounts
-
Requesting sensitive personal information such as Social Security numbers, bank details, or passwords
-
Spoofing caller ID numbers to appear legitimate
Authorities stress that Everett Police will never request or demand payment of any kind, nor will they ask for personal or financial information over the phone.
Residents are urged not to share personal information unless they initiated the contact and to hang up immediately if they feel pressured or threatened. Anyone receiving a call claiming to be from a government agency should verify it by contacting the agency directly using a publicly listed phone number.
Everett Police encourage the public to remain vigilant and to report suspicious activity. More information on how to protect yourself from scams is available on the City of Everett’s official website.
Officials also ask residents to help spread awareness by resharing scam alerts to protect friends, family, and vulnerable community members.