Scammers are targeting Temple University students and their families, posing as university police officers and demanding money for their child’s release. Temple University’s Department of Public Safety issued a warning after two parents received such calls in the early hours of Saturday morning. The impostors claimed that the parents’ sons had been arrested and requested payment via Apple Pay or Cash App for their release.
MORE: To celebrate its 100th anniversary, Temple’s marching band will be performing at the 2025 Macy’s Thanksgiving Day Parade.
Fortunately, the parents recognized the scam and did not send any money. Temple University confirmed that the students were safe and sound. The calls originated from a 215 area code, and Temple’s Criminal Investigations Unit is looking into the incidents.
Temple emphasized that its police department would never solicit money from parents or guardians for their child’s release. If anyone receives a suspicious call purporting to be from Temple police, they should hang up and report the incident to the Temple University Police Department at 215-204-1234.