The Hawai'i Police Department today warned the public about a possible telephone scam.

A Puna woman reported receiving a telephone call last week from a man who told her he was representing the Hawaii Tribune-Herald, police said. He said the newspaper was looking for people who wanted to "give back" to the community by making donations. The woman's caller ID indicated that the call was not from the newspaper. After she began to question the caller, he hung up the phone.

Police have confirmed that the newspaper is not soliciting donations and are cautioning people to be aware of fraudulent appeals for donations. They are advised to contact the named donation recipient to confirm that the person soliciting the funds is actually fundraising on behalf of the recipient.