LEESBURG Va. (WUSA9) -- The Leesburg Police Department is warning citizens about a scam that involves fictitious arrest warrants.

According to police, in ease case a suspect would contact the victim acting as a law enforcement officer, and would say the victim has a warrant issued for their arrest.

The suspect would offer the victim an opportunity to settle the issue by purchasing electronic MoneyPak orders, or "Green Dot Cards," in the amount of $2,000, police say. The suspect would then get the serial number from the card and transfer the funds without the victim knowing.

Following the transfer, communication with the suspect ceases, officials say.

Police remind citizens to be wary of these "phishing" scams that prey on the fear of the unknowing public.

Phishers attempt to fraudulently acquire sensitive information, such as passwords, serial numbers, and credit card details, by pretending to be a trustworthy person or business, police say. Phishing is typically carried out using email or an instant message, although phone contact can be used.

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