The Washington Police Department is alerting residents of ongoing scams. They continue to receive reports of phone scams taking money. 

As a reminder, law enforcement or any other legitimate business or organization will never ask for payment via gift cards. No legitimate agency will ask you to withdraw large sums of cash or send payments through Bitcoin, and if someone threatens you with arrest or claims they need money to “help a family member,” it is a scam. 

It is important to stay alert and never share personal information or money with someone you don’t know. 

If you have a question about a message you have received, you can call the non-emergency number at (319) 653-2256 for guidance.