ARLINGTON, Va. (DC News Now) -- The Animal Welfare League of Arlington (AWLA) is alerting residents of a fraudulent scheme that has surfaced recently. The AWLA said swindlers have been targeting pet owners and impersonating AWLA staff, spoofing the AWLA's phone number and telling pet owners that they picked up their lost pets and need money immediately for urgent and emergency care. AWLA said the swindlers have duplicated its main phone number so when unsuspecting pet owners hang up and call back, they'll reach the AWLA facility. Winter safety tips for pet owners after snow squalls hit the DMV area Pet owners are reminded to report suspicious phone calls and alert the AWLA immediately of the situation. The AWLA said it will never ask for payment over the phone and to never share personal or financial information over the phone unless you're aware of who you're speaking with. A false Facebook page impersonating the AWLA was also set up last weekend but has since been removed. The AWLA said it would never message residents asking if they want to adopt an animal. The Arlington County Police Department is investigating these swindling efforts.