Saint Charles Police have notified their phone carrier and federal authorities about fraudulent phone calls by people claiming to be from the department and asking for money.

The scammers have made calls to people in multiple states, claiming they have warrants and to avoid arrest, the call recipient must empty bank accounts by sending gift cards or money. The scammers may already have personal information about their targets to sound convincing.

But Saint Charles Police say they don’t ask for payments or personal information over the phone.  You’re urged to hang up and contact your local police to make a report if you receive such a call.

Authorities suspect this type of operation is based outside the U.S. and is virtually impossible to track down.