Des Moines, Iowa — If someone calls, claiming to be with the DCI, it may be a scam, and experts warn to proceed with caution.
The Iowa Department of Public Safety Division of Criminal Investigation or “DCI” and Iowa State Patrol say there’s a scam being used against Iowans in which the caller says they’re with the DCI.
The Iowa State Patrol says they have received reports from citizens that scammers were posing to be employees of the Department. The callers would claim that they were investigating a lawsuit and were Special Agents with the DCI.
The DCI says that if you receive a similar phone call, they ask you to contact your local law enforcement and the Iowa Attorney General’s Office Hotline at (515) 281-5926 or (888) 777-4590.
The Department of Public Safety, or “DPS” is the umbrella organization that includes the State Patrol, DCI, Fire Marshal’s Office, the Division of Narcotics Enforcement, and more. The DPS says there are some helpful tips to prevent being targeted by fraudulent calls. They say that if you get a call from someone who claims they are collecting money on behalf of the DPS—even if a caller ID device shows the DPS—hang up. They advise that the DPS does not demand immediate payment via prepaid debit cards. They also say you should not provide or confirm personal information or financial information to anyone who calls.
The DPS says you do not need to report the scam if you receive a call. However, if you lost money through the scam, report it to your local police department or sheriff’s office.
