Marion police warn of phone scam impersonating federal agencies

FOX23 News at 9 p.m

MARION, Ill., (KBSI) — The Marion Police Department is warning Southern Illinois residents about a phone scam involving callers posing as federal officials.

Police said the callers claim to represent the Social Security Administration and work with the U.S. Marshals Service. Victims are told they owe money and must send a photocopy of their driver’s license or state-issued identification card. The callers reportedly threaten arrest if the money or identification is not provided quickly.

Authorities said residents should not provide personal information or money to anyone making such claims. Officials advise anyone who receives one of the calls to gather information about the caller without sharing personal details and to report the incident to the Illinois Attorney General’s Office or their local police or sheriff’s department.

Police emphasized that legitimate government agencies will not call to demand money or identification.