The Washoe County Sheriff’s Office started receiving reports from the public this week about phone calls from a male identifying himself as a “Detective Phillips from the Washoe County Sheriff’s Office” and asking for personal information.

In one instance, the caller was described as becoming aggressive and angry when information was refused.

Although the motive of these calls is unclear at this time, the sheriff’s office reminds the public to be wary of providing any information to strangers without verifying the credibility of their identity.

If you are uncomfortable with a phone call, gather whatever information you can then hang up, do not give any information out. If you are concerned that the Washoe County Sheriff’s Office may be legitimately attempting to reach you, call the department.