The Grand Junction Police Department (GJPD) is alerting the public to several concerning scams involving fraudulent phone calls and emails designed to deceive individuals into sending money under false pretenses.
In one version of the scam, callers falsely claim that a loved one has been involved in a serious car crash or has been arrested and then demand immediate payment for medical expenses or bail. In another, scammers pose as government agencies conducting an audit and demand payment in cryptocurrency, such as bitcoin.
What makes these scams particularly alarming is that the scammers often know the name of the victim’s family member—or just enough personal information to sound convincing. They rely on fear, urgency, and intimidation to pressure victims into acting quickly, often before verifying the claims.
The Grand Junction Police Department urges community members to take the following steps if they receive a suspicious call or message:
- Remain calm and resist the urge to respond out of fear.
- Verify the claim by contacting the family member or agency directly.
- Do not send money or provide financial information. Scammers often request wire transfers, cryptocurrency, or prepaid gift cards—methods that are difficult to trace and recover.
- Avoid sharing any additional personal information.
- Report the incident to local law enforcement immediately.
- Warn others, especially those who may be more vulnerable to scams.
These types of scams can be terrifying, especially when they involve threats to someone you love. The GJPD urges everyone to take a moment, assess the situation, verify the information, and contact law enforcement right away.
Anyone who believes they have been targeted or victimized by these scams is encouraged to contact non-emergency dispatch at 970-242-6707. The Grand Junction Police Department continues to investigate these incidents and remains committed to protecting the community from fraud and deception.