State Patrol number ‘hijacked’ to make bomb threats

WSP warns residents across state to be vigilant if they get a call claiming to be from the State Patrol.

Somebody is using a Washington State Patrol associated phone number to make bomb threats.

The WSP is warning Washington residents that one of their phone numbers is showing up on caller ID, a practice they call “spoofing” or “number hijacking,” where the origin of a call is manipulated or hidden to lend credence to a scam.

The caller then leaves a voicemail claiming, “there are bombs in the area and the recipient should log onto the website to ensure personal safety,” according to a release from the WSP. The WSP considers the website to be “suspicious.”

“There is NO indication that these calls represent credible threats and there are NO credible reports of unusual danger,” the release states, with the WSP’s use of emphasis on the word “no.” “WSP urges all citizens to be vigilant in protecting both their personal safety and personal information. Anyone who receives a threatening call of any sort or witnesses suspicious or potential dangerous activity should always contact local law enforcement by calling 911.”

Law enforcement agencies across the state have received calls from residents who received this message. The incidents are under investigation.