MOSES LAKE — Moses Lake police are warning residents of a scam that’s making the rounds in the area.

Several local residents have reported receiving phone calls purporting to be from the city, according to a social media post from the MLPD. The caller ID shows as City of Moses Lake 509-764-3701, and the caller reportedly demands money in payment for damages done to a local business.

The calls are fraudulent, the MLPD said.

The city never demands money for a private business, the post said. If a city bill is legitimate, it can be paid in person or through the city’s online portal at https://www.xpressbillpay.com.

Police urge residents to be careful when receiving phone calls, as scammers can easily spoof a number to make it appear as though the call is coming from anywhere they want. If people are unsure about the origin of a call, the post saiid, the best solution is simply to hang up. If you decide to stay on the line and mess with the scammer, it added, be careful not to give away any personal information.