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Manlius police are warning residents to be cautious after reports of a phone scam in which callers ask for donations on behalf of law enforcement organizations. According to a recent alert from Manlius police, scammers have contacted individuals by phone, claiming to represent groups such as the “National Policing Institute” or the “National Police Fund,” and requesting charitable contributions.
The National Policing Institute clarified that it does not solicit donations via phone calls. In a statement, the organization said, “The National Policing Institute does NOT solicit donations from anyone via phone. If you have been contacted via telephone and asked to make donations to the National Policing Institute in Washington, D.C., this is a scam.” The organization also encouraged anyone who receives such calls to note the caller’s name and number, and to request donation information by mail before considering any contribution.
Manlius police emphasized that legitimate police or law enforcement agencies do not call residents to ask for money. According to CNY Central, these scams often use high-pressure tactics, demand immediate payment, or refuse to provide detailed information about how donations will be used.
New York State Police have also issued past warnings about similar scams. They noted that neither the state police nor any agency authorized by it ever solicits donations from the public by phone. The only authorized entity to accept donations on behalf of the New York State Police is Trooper Foundation, Inc., a not-for-profit organization. State police urge residents to be wary of solicitors who do not provide an address or phone number, demand payment in cash, or become angry or impatient when questioned about their organization. More details can be found in the state police warning.
Authorities recommend reporting suspicious calls to the Federal Trade Commission at ftc.gov or contacting the State Attorney General’s Office if a caller claims to be affiliated with law enforcement.
Manlius police continue to monitor reports of donation scams and encourage residents to stay vigilant and verify all requests before giving personal information or money.