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The Spokesman-Review Newspaper
Spokane, Washington  Est. May 19, 1883

Sirens & Gavels

WSP phone number hijacked by con artists

Talk about gutsy.

The main phone number for the Washington State Patrol's headquarters was hijacked by what investigators believe is a team of scam artists trying to steal money from unsuspecting victims by claiming to be troopers collecting unpaid fines and taxes. The agency said today that it has received about 30 complaints so far and is advising people to hang up if they receive phone calls from anyone claiming to be a trooper demanding money to clear up previous violations or unpaid fines.

"The WSP does not call citizens to advise of violations, warrants, or collect fines," the agency said in a news release issued today.

Troopers said that if you receive a phone call from someone claiming to be with WSP wanting money, you should hang up the phone without disclosing any personal information.



David Wasson oversees coverage of politics and state and local government and assists with editing on the City Desk.

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