Phone Scammers Impersonating Police
The Royal Virgin Islands Police Force (RVIPF) has warned residents about scammers posing as police officers in telephone, video and email communications. The Force says callers have used numbers including (340) 205-6489 but cautions that scammers may use different numbers or accounts and urges the public to verify identities and report suspicious contacts.
The Royal Virgin Islands Police Force (RVIPF) issued a public warning on August 2, 2026, after receiving reports that scammers are contacting residents by telephone, video call and email while pretending to be police officers. The Force said one of the telephone numbers reported in connection with these incidents is (340) 205-6489, but emphasised that this is not the only number or account being used.
Scammers frequently change phone numbers, email addresses and online platforms, the RVIPF warned, and may use techniques such as caller ID spoofing to make a number appear local or familiar. In its advisory, the RVIPF reminded the public of basic precautions to avoid becoming a victim: Do not provide personal or sensitive information over the phone or during a video call unless you are certain of the caller's identity.
If you receive a suspicious call from someone claiming to be a police officer, end the call immediately. If unsure whether the caller is a genuine officer, contact the Royal Virgin Islands Police Force directly using its official telephone numbers to verify the information. Do not assume a caller is legitimate simply because the number appears local or familiar; telephone numbers can be spoofed.
Report any suspicious calls, emails or attempted scams to the RVIPF as soon as possible. Anyone who receives a suspicious call is asked to contact the RVIPF Intelligence Unit at 368-9512 or the non-emergency access number 311 to make a report. The Force also encouraged people to share the advisory with family members, particularly elderly relatives and other vulnerable persons who are often targeted by scammers.
Residents who believe they may have disclosed personal or financial information during a scam call should contact their bank or service providers immediately and report the matter to the RVIPF so investigators can act quickly. Phone and online scams are a persistent threat across the region.
The RVIPF reiterated that vigilance and simple verification steps — such as calling back on an official number listed on the police website or public directory — are the best immediate defenses. The Force said it will continue to monitor reports and investigate incidents related to impersonation scams.
Primary source: VINO