LISTEN: Overwhelming number of reports impersonating Springfield police
SPRINGFIELD, Mass. (WWLP) – The Springfield Police Department is warning the community, particularly in the Longmeadow area, about a phone scheme.
Springfield man charged with DUI, wrong-way driving in Enfield
According to police, the scheme involves callers impersonating Springfield Police sergeants in an apparent attempt to defraud recipients. They said police have been getting inundated with reports from residents receiving calls from individuals falsely claiming to be members of the Springfield Police Department.
The schemers are using the real names of both a retired and a currently serving Springfield police sergeant to appear credible. Authorities say no one has reported falling victim to the scheme, but residents have been contacting the police after receiving and hanging up on calls.
In the audio file provided by the Springfield Police Department, the recording says they are a sergeant with the Springfield Police Department looking to speak with the person regarding a 'confidential legal matter' and leaves a callback number.
The scheme appears to be targeting phone numbers in the Longmeadow area, with reports increasing over the past two days. Police are advising residents to hang up immediately if they receive such a call and not to call the number back. Individuals do not need to notify the police unless they have already provided money or sensitive information.
In such cases, or if someone wants to verify the legitimacy of a call, they are urged to contact the Springfield Police Department at 413-787-6355.
The Longmeadow Police Department is reminding residents that officers will never ask for payment of any kind over the phone and recommends the following to protect yourself from falling victim:
Verify the caller's identity: Always request the full name, identification number, and contact information of the caller. Legitimate law enforcement officers will provide this information without hesitation.
Refrain from sharing personal information: Avoid disclosing personal details, such as your Social Security number, bank account information, credit card numbers, or any other sensitive data over the phone.
Be cautious of urgent or coercive tactics: Scammers often create a sense of urgency, coercing victims into immediate action. They may threaten arrest, fines, or legal consequences to pressure you into revealing information or making immediate payments. Take a step back, remain calm, and verify the authenticity of the call before making any decisions or taking action.
Educate yourself and loved ones: Share this information with your friends, family, and vulnerable individuals within your community. By spreading awareness, we can collectively protect ourselves and prevent these scams from succeeding.
WWLP-22News, an NBC affiliate, began broadcasting in March 1953 to provide local news, network, syndicated, and local programming to western Massachusetts. Watch the 22News Digital Edition weekdays at 4 p.m. on WWLP.com.
Copyright 2025 Nexstar Media, Inc. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten, or redistributed.
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