Scam alert issued from Temple University: what you need to know

PHILADELPHIA - Temple University is alerting students and parents to a scam in which someone impersonates a Temple police officer to steal money.

Officials with the university sent out the alert saying a few parents had received phone calls from a 215-area code number saying they were Temple Police and their child had been arrested.

The caller went on to say the parents had to send money through Apple Pay or Cash App in order for their kids to be released from jail.

According to the university, the parents knew it was a scam, they did not send money to the caller and checked on their kids, making sure they were alright.

F.U.D.

IT expert Anthony Mongelluzzo explains, "It’s really the grandparents scheme 2.0. They’re using AI, using apps to fake your phone number and basically take advantage of fear. They call it the FUD - fear, uncertainty, and doubt. What bad actors want to do, they create fear, uncertainty and they want you to react and take control of your emotions."

DON'T GIVE IN TO FEAR

So how do scammers target parents? Experts say they fish - trying hundreds of numbers, hoping to catch an unsuspecting parent who might send the money.

The Temple University Criminal Investigations Unit is investigating the incidents.

As a precaution and alert to parents, always know Temple University Police and Detectives will never call a parent or guardian to request money in order for their child to be released.

Always report any call of a suspicious nature to the police by dialing 215-204-1234.