After a Pella business was targeted by a persuasive phone scam, the Pella Police Department reminds residents of all ages to learn more about how they could be tricked into giving away money.

Pella Police Captain Paul Haase says over time, scammers have become harder to track down by using fake phone numbers, targeted information, and threats of arrest or worse to get money out of individuals — and while traditionally those have targeted older people, Haase says it’s more common that those of all ages are being harassed.

Haase says no businesses, utilities, or government organizations would ever require payment using gift cards or by direct threat, and that anyone should verify who they are going to give funds to before doing so.

Haase says any money given to a scammer is next to impossible to track down, especially if it is transferred to an overseas account. Contact the Pella Police Department if targeted by a phone scam or for more resources.