FISHERS – Police in Fishers are concerned after residents say they have received calls from officers demanding cash to drop charges.

This is the latest example of nationwide fraud involving fake documents.

“They get a call and spoof our police department’s phone number to make it look like it’s actually from the Fisher Police Department,” said Fisher Police Sergeant Angela Ellison. “They may be using the name of a real officer.”

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Scammers are reportedly calling residents and claiming they can avoid the charges by paying.

“No police officer would ever do something like that,” Ellison said.

It’s part of a growing problem that the Indiana Attorney General’s Office is addressing.

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“We’re definitely seeing an increase in phone scams,” said Scott Barnhart, senior counsel and director of consumer protection for the Indiana Attorney General’s Office. “Scammers are looking for a way to remain anonymous and make it harder for authorities to track them down and collect evidence to prove exactly who is on the other end of the line.”

Experts say it’s important to verify information whenever someone asks for cash over the phone.

“Slow down,” Barnhart advised. “See if you can check…if the person on the other end of the line is unwilling or tries to act hastily or hurriedly, that’s a sign that consumers should hang up and end the conversation.”

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If you or someone you know has been a victim of fraud, you can report it to the Attorney General’s Office.