State Police warn of debt collection scam

The latest phone scam sweeping the nation has callers claiming to be State Police investigators requesting money to cover a bad debt or unpaid loan, police said.

But don't fall for it.

State Police warned of the scam on its website Wednesday, saying callers claim to be from the "Bureau of Criminal Investigation" or the "Cybercrimes Unit of the New York State Police" and request money they say is needed to satisfy a loan, credit card or cash advance. They often say the money is owed to a collection company identified as "Advance Cash Net."

The scammers said they often will even provide "a legitimate law enforcement address in an effort to gain credibility," State Police said.

Do not share personal information, State Police said. "The New York State Police does not engage in any kind of collections practice, nor does it solicit or request money be paid regarding any unpaid debts," the agency said.

Police said in addition to New York, there have been victims in at least seven other states, including Colorado, Arkansas, North Carolina, South Carolina, Florida, California and Ohio.

The phone numbers used often appear on caller ID as legitimate New York area numbers, police said.

Police asking anyone who may be a victim or who may have information regarding this scam e-mail crimetip@troopers.state.ny.us.