The following is a press release from the Washington State Patrol:

The Washington State Patrol (WSP) Headquarter’s telephone was compromised.

The WSP received 30 complaints from citizens stating they were called by someone who falsely identified themselves as a WSP trooper. According to the citizens, the caller impersonating a trooper accused the citizens of various violations including outstanding warrants, unpaid tickets and unpaid school taxes.

The WSP does not call citizens to advise of violations, warrants or collect fines.

If citizens receive phone calls from someone stating they are a WSP trooper calling to collect or advise of fines, they should do the following:

· Do not answer any questions

· Do not agree to pay any fines

· Do not share any personal information

· Hang up the telephone

The WSP takes these acts very seriously and is currently working on a solution to remedy the problem.