In the past few days, the UW Police Department has received more than 20 reports of scam phone calls that look like they’re coming from the UWPD non-emergency number, 206-685-8973 or the UWPD front desk phone number, 206-543-0507.
The scammer pretends to be a UWPD officer and demands money, telling callers they need to pay or they’ll be arrested. If you get a call like this, please do not share personal information or send money, gift cards or anything of value. The UWPD will never call you to ask for money.
If someone contacts you claiming to be with the UWPD, hang up and call the UWPD non-emergency line at 206-685-8973 to speak with the on-duty dispatcher. The dispatcher can confirm whether an officer is actually trying to reach you.
Learn more about how to avoid scams targeting the UW community.