Californians warned to be on high alert for ‘Amber Alert’ scam

The California Highway Patrol recently took to social media to alert residents about a new scam that is making its rounds in the state. According to the warning, phone scammers are pretending to be representatives from the Amber Alert system and are offering to visit homes to gather personal information under the guise of registering children. However, it is important to note that this is not how the Amber Alert system operates.

The Amber Alert system, which was established in 2003 and named after 9-year-old Amber Hagerman who was tragically kidnapped and murdered in 1996, is designed to quickly notify the public about child abductions. It is a vital tool in helping law enforcement locate missing children and bring them to safety.

The California Highway Patrol emphasized that they are the only authorized agency to activate Amber Alerts in the state. They also advised the public to never provide personal information or engage with suspicious phone calls, and to report any such incidents to law enforcement immediately.

It is crucial for individuals to remain vigilant and cautious when it comes to protecting their personal information and staying safe from scams. By staying informed and following best practices for online and phone security, we can all help prevent falling victim to fraudulent schemes.

For more information and updates on this issue, you can visit the California Highway Patrol website or follow their social media channels. Stay safe and stay informed.