The scam begins with a post claiming someone needs urgent help, designed to grab attention and be shared across social media. (Contributed Photo)

The Tyler Police Department is warning residents about a scam circulating on social media.

One of the posts includes a photo of a female officer and is being posted in community Facebook groups, buy sell trade pages and more.

The police department said it starts when someone posts in groups like these saying a police officer or another person needs help.

These posts are meant to make people feel sad or worried, and then they get shared in groups and through messages. The person who made the post often stole someone else’s Facebook page. Later, they change the post to promote a deal or free money.

“This makes it seem like your family and friends are trying to tell you about a good deal or nice way to get a little money,” TPD said in a Facebook post.

If someone clicks the link, it could steal their personal information or ask them to enter details for “free” money.

The Tyler Police Department said it will only post important news on their official Facebook page or share it with local news outlets. Officials urge people to be careful and not fall for these scams.