Police: Immigrants Targeted in Phone Scam

A new phone scam is targeting Herndon's immigrant residents, with the caller threatening deportation if the victim doesn't provide immediate payment, according to Herndon Police.

The callers have claimed the immigration status of the victim or their family members is in jeopardy.

A similar phone scam targeting immigrants was recently reported in the City of Fairfax. In that case, the caller claimed to be from the IRS, demanding "tax payments" while threatening the victim's immigration status.

The scammers instruct the victims to obtain money cards and provide the card information so the caller can then withdraw the cash. 

"A legitimate government representative will not call you and demand immediate payment by a pre-paid debit card to settle an immigration issue," notes a Herndon Police release. "If you are unsure whether or not the person you are speaking with is a legitimate representative of the U.S. Government, hang up and call the police."

Residents can report any suspicious phone calls to the Herndon Police Department at 703-435-6846.