Michigan State Police warn residents of spoof phone calls

The Michigan State Police Wayland Post and Fifth District Regional Dispatch received numerous complaints Wednesday, from Michigan residents who reported receiving “spoof” phone calls using the Wayland post's phone number, 269-792-2213, according to officials.

Officials say the suspect callers are telling residents they either have warrants or are being investigated by the Michigan State Police.

The report also states residents are being asked for money in various forms of payment to avoid being arrested.

The police want to remind the public that, although someone from their agency may contact you by phone regarding an investigation, warrant, or other official business, they will always identify themselves by their rank and name.

Law enforcement officials say they will also provide a badge number upon request.

Officials say while the police may advise a resident over the phone about a warrant for their arrest and a bond amount, they will never ask you to send money.

Officials say you will never be asked to send payment in the form of gift cards or a third-party money transfer service such as PayPal, Venmo, Western Union, MoneyGram, Google Pay, Apple Pay, or Cash App.

Complaints of similar spoof calls have been reported in Berrien, Oakland, and Wexford County.

Law enforcement states, if a caller is contacting you, from what appears to be a Michigan State Police phone number, and is asking for money to be sent, personal information like your social security number, or otherwise acts suspiciously, end the call, and notify your local Michigan State Police post.