CHAMPAIGN, Ill. (Chambana Today) — The Champaign Police Department is warning residents about a recent phone scam in which callers are impersonating police officers and demanding money under the threat of arrest.

Police said a Champaign resident reported receiving calls Tuesday from someone claiming to be a Champaign Police officer. The caller told the resident there was an outstanding warrant and demanded immediate payment to avoid being taken into custody.

The department said the call was a scam and emphasized that officers will never contact individuals by phone to request money, especially in connection with warrants or court proceedings.

Police also cautioned residents to be suspicious of unprompted calls or messages that demand quick payment, request money through gift cards or wire transfers, or make threats involving the safety of loved ones.

Anyone who receives a suspected scam call is encouraged to hang up immediately and contact the organization directly using a published phone number. Suspected scam calls in Champaign can be reported to police at 217-351-4545 or by filing a report online.