AMES, Iowa — The Ames Police Department is warning the community to be alert against a jury duty scam circulating through Ames.

According to the Ames Police Department, scammers pose as Ames police officers and call residents claiming they missed jury duty. The scammers then demand money or claim you will be arrested and serve jail time.

The Ames Police Department reminds residents that they will never call to demand money or threaten arrest over the phone. They also remind the community to never share personal information or make payments to unknown callers.

If a resident receives a suspicious call, the police advise that you immediately hang up and call the Ames authorities at 515-239-5133.

Authorities also advise the community to stay vigilant about other scams including the “grandparent scam” which is reportedly on the rise this year.

According to the Des Moines Police Department, scammers have cost Iowan’s $20 million across the state.