Chapel Hill Police are warning people not to be misled by a fundraising scam by people claiming to be local law enforcement.

Lt. Kevin Gunter, Chapel Hill Police public information officer, said the scam first started in the winter months but is now picking up again. He said people have been calling residents and saying they are calling on behalf of local police soliciting money.

 Lt. Gunter said the imposters are preying on people because they know most people want to do the right thing and help out. He said if you receive one of these calls, you should always call the agency the person is saying they represent to confirm it's legit.

"They confirm with the organization that this person is working for them on behalf of them before they donate," Gunter said. "We also suggest people don't give their credit card information over the phone."

 If you are considering making a charitable donation Chapel Hill police released the following tips: 

Don't give to charities you've never heard of without first checking with the Better Business Bureau to make sure they're legitimate. Avoid making donations if you receive unsolicited phone calls or emails even if they claim to represent a well known charity.  Instead, contact a legitimate charity directly by phone or through their website. If you are suspicious of a charity, request information about the organization be sent through the mail before you contribute.

The Chapel Hill Police Department supports Special Olympics of North Carolina through its annual Golf Tournament and other fund raisers. If you have questions concerning the Special Olympics, please contact police directly.

If you would like to donate funds directly to the police department, Chapel Hill police do accept donations for the police department's K-9 Program. They do no solicit donations, but contact the police department for more information.

If you have any questions about fundraising frauds or scams call the Chapel Hill Police Department Community Services Unit at 919-932-2929. 

 To hear more from police, click on the video above.