FAYETTEVILLE, Ark. – The University of Arkansas Police Department has received two reports since April 24 involving the theft of purses from buildings and a follow-up phone scam. In each case, the theft victim received a phone call from a person alleging to be with a local bank. The caller told both victims that their bank accounts had been accessed and then asked the victims for their PIN numbers, supposedly to verify the account information. The victims provided the numbers, and a short time later their accounts were actually used and multiple withdrawals were made.

University Police remind everyone not to release financial information over the phone. If a person claiming to be from a bank calls and asks for personal financial information, do not provide it. Note the caller’s number on your caller ID if possible then hang up, contact the police department and contact your bank.

UAPD is continuing to investigate these crimes, but no suspects have been identified at this time. If you have any information regarding these events please contact UAPD at 479-575-2222.