UO Security Advisory Eugene: Police don't call asking for money or gift cards

Sept. 2, 2025 9:45 a.m. 

The University of Oregon Police Department has received several reports recently of people being called by a scammer using a UOPD phone number. The caller says that they are from UOPD and asks for money or a gift card to pay a fine or settle a warrant out for the person’s arrest. UOPD’s phone number has been mimicked to show up on caller ID, making the story seem legitimate. This is a scam that occurs across the country. A law enforcement agency will not ask you for this type of information or request gift cards for payment. 

If you receive a call and recognize that it is a scam, hang up and report it to the FBI’s Internet Crime Complaint Center. 

If you are a victim of this or any other scam, call UOPD at 541-346-2919. 

Remember: 

• If someone asks you for cash, gift cards, credit card numbers, security logins, or other personal information, REFUSE. Call the police or find another way to contact a legitimate business to follow up. Do not use a callback number they give you. 

• Don’t give out computer or phone logins, personal, or financial information to someone who calls you. If you are not sure about the call, hang up and find the real agency phone number and call yourself. 

• Beware high-pressure techniques. Don’t give information or make a decision on the spot. 

•If it sounds quirky or weird, it probably is. 
 

What is this notice? Campus Security Advisories are released by the University of Oregon Police Department when certain crimes are reported on or near campus property, and in compliance with federal law. These timely warnings provide information about campus safety situations and allow campus community members to take precautions for personal safety. All crimes should be reported as soon as possible to local law enforcement.   

SAFETY TIPS FROM UOPD  

No action or inaction by a crime survivor makes that person responsible for his or her victimization. Perpetrators are responsible for crimes and their effects. The following suggestions may help reduce the possibility of experiencing such a crime or may improve opportunities to receive prompt assistance.  

  • Communities are safest when members look out for each other: Report any suspicious activity or unauthorized strangers immediately.   
  • Secure your belongings and don’t leave them unattended.
  • Make sure doors and windows are locked.   
  • Don’t hold doors open for unknown people to let them enter private, secure areas.   
  • Be alert traveling to, from, and around campus – especially at night.   
  • Carry a well-charged cell phone with emergency numbers pre-programmed.  
  • Bystanders should try to be aware of their surroundings, and if there are signs of a person in distress, bystanders should make themselves known and offer assistance if it is safe to do so, and/or seek immediate help from police or security personnel.    
  • Report criminal activity (such as a break-in or intruder, robbery, or assault) immediately to 9-1-1, or for non-emergency situations on campus, to UOPD at 541-346-2919.  

RESOURCES AVAILABLE FOR SURVIVORS OF CRIME    

  • Student survivors of crime may find support and resource options at safe.uoregon.edu or call the 24-hour SAFE hotline at 541-346-SAFE (7233).   
  • University Counseling Services is open until 5:00 p.m. on weekdays and offers 24-hour crisis support via phone; 541-346-3227.   
  • Duck Nest provides a place for students to practice self-care and life-balance. It is staffed by Peer Wellness Advocates.