The following is a news release from the Idaho Falls Fire Department.
IDAHO FALLS — It has been brought to our attention that individuals are pretending to be representatives of the Idaho Falls Fire Department and demanding money.
IFFD wants residents and business owners to be aware of scam callers and not give any personal information over the phone.
Calls are being made to local people demanding photos of fire safety equipment. They also make accusations the person or business is not following fire codes and demand immediate payment over the phone.
The Idaho Falls Fire Department does not demand immediate payment for any code violations. Verify any payment requests in person or call the person/organization requesting information.
Here are a few other tips to keep in mind when you receive a scam call:
If the caller is demanding immediate payment or requesting the purchase of a prepaid credit card to make a payment, it’s a scam. Be cautious about providing any personal or financial information over the phone if you have not solicited the phone call. If the caller says payment must be taken over the phone, it’s a scam. The Idaho Falls Fire Department and City of Idaho Falls will not request payment over wire transfer. Secure payments are processed for any development permits through your private portal on CityWorks.