Huntington Park Police Warn Business Owners About Extortion Scam
HUNTINGTON PARK (CBSLA.com) — Huntington Park police are warning the public about a recent rash of extortion calls made to several businesses.
Authorities say in each case an unknown male caller contacted local businesses claiming to be from a local street and/or prison gang. The caller demands money be wired in exchange for protection.
Reports have been filed with the Huntington Park Police Department and surrounding agencies.
To avoid becoming a victim of extortion, police suggest being aware of the following:
- Incoming calls made from an outside area code (out of state or out of the country)
- Repeated phone calls
- Callers go to great lengths to keep you on the phone
- Ransom money is only accepted via wire transfer service
If you receive a phone call from someone demanding money, authorities say you should stay calm, slow the situation down, avoid sharing any personal information and notify authorities.
The cases are being investigated by the Huntington Park Police Department's Gang Investigators as well as other outside law enforcement agencies. Anyone with information is asked to call the Huntington Park Police Department at (323) 584-6254. Anonymous tips may also be submitted.
