MT. VERNON, IL — The Mt. Vernon Police Department is alerting the public to a phone scam in the area. They say they received several calls Thursday from people reporting scam calls they received saying a loved one had been in a wreck, was being held hostage, needs to be picked up or some other emergency situation.

They are then asked for money and directed to meet the scammer at an area location such as a local store. Police say they have no way of knowing where the calls are coming from. But they remind the public to never give out personal or financial information and never agree to meet these callers.

Also, if you believe someone you know may be in danger, contact your nearest law enforcement agency.