The New York State Police is warning the public about a scam where callers are posing as government officials and other law enforcement personnel.

The scammers will call or email the victims and inform them that enforcement action will be taken against them unless they pay a fine. In most cases, the impersonators instruct their potential victims to pay the reported fine via wire transfer or Green Dot card.

If victims refuse to send money, the impersonators often threaten to arrest them or search their property.

Some victims who purchased items online also reported fraudulent use of their credit cards.

In some cases, the scammers have used the New York State Police Division Headquarters address in e-mails.

The public should be aware that law enforcement will not contact members of the public by telephone or via email for form of payment.

The New York State Police also reminds the public to use caution when purchasing items by telephone or through the Internet. Use only trusted websites.

(YWN World Headquarters – NYC)