08/18/2026
The Waterbury Police Department is warning residents about an ongoing fraud in which scammers are impersonating elected officials and contacting members of the community requesting payment through gift cards.
The scammer may use the name, photograph, or other identifying information of a legitimate elected official in an attempt to make the communication appear authentic. The scam may be conducted through a phone call, text message, email, or social media message.
Residents should be especially cautious if they are contacted by someone claiming to be an elected official who:
• Requests money or payment through a gift card.
• Creates a sense of urgency and demands immediate payment.
• Asks you to purchase an Apple, Google Play, Amazon, or other gift card.
• Requests the gift card number, PIN, or a photograph of the card.
• Threatens consequences if you do not make the requested payment.
• Instructs you not to tell anyone about the transaction.
Remember: Gift cards are for gifts & not payments. A legitimate elected official or government agency will not ask you to purchase a gift card as a form of payment.
If you receive a suspicious message or phone call, do not send money, purchase gift cards, or provide gift card numbers or personal information. Do not rely on the contact information provided by the person contacting you. Instead, independently locate the official’s verified contact information and contact their office directly to determine whether the request is legitimate.