Police warn about insurance scam

Police are warning the public about an auto insurance scam.

A 66-year-old Hilo man reported that he received a telephone call from someone claiming to work for a company offering third-party extended warranties for vehicles. The caller knew the vehicle ID number of the man’s car.

Police learned from the intended victim’s automobile dealer that this is a common scam being offered by phone and mail.

Police urge the public to be cautious of any unsolicited offers by phone, mail, text message or email, and to check with the state Department of Commerce and Consumer Affairs or the Better Business Bureau to see if an unfamiliar company is legitimate and reputable.