LEXINGTON, Ky. -  The Lexington Police Department is warning people about a phone scam targeting people in the area.

The caller claims to be a Lexington Police officer and they appear to call from the department's non-emergency number which is 859-258-3600.

In at least one case, the caller told someone that their social security number had been linked to criminal activity and that they had the option to cooperate with them or face arrest.

According to police, the victim provided the caller with various personal information including their email address and bank account, and was instructed to buy gift cards and tell the caller the activation codes.

Police say if you get this type of call, do not provide any information, just hang up.