The Farmville Police Department is reminding citizens that phone scams have historically been prevalent during the early months of the year.

“These scams range from person(s) claiming to be family members requesting money, IRS scams demanding payment, power companies demanding payment and computer repair services requesting password,” police said in a press release.

Farmville police recently conducted research using crime analytics and found that between January 1 and February 28, these reports typically increase.

“In 2014 we found six reports during that time, in 2015 we found nine. So far this year, we have already received 10 reports of phone scams.”

Police said that such scams are “very difficult crimes to solve as the scammers are often spread out in any number of locations.”

According to the release, the best approach to take is to question any type of call of this nature.

“Ask for a call back number and advise the caller you will call them back after you confirm their true identity. Contact a friend or family member to ask a second opinion and report the incident to your local police department who can help you determine the validity of the caller.”

Police advise to practice caution anytime “you conduct business over the phone and help reduce your chances of becoming a victim.”