Washington County, Maryland – The sheriff’s office is warning residents about scammers impersonating deputies and demanding immediate payment to avoid arrest.
According to the Washington County Sheriff’s Office, officials have received reports of callers claiming to be law enforcement officers who tell victims they have a warrant or missed jury duty. The callers allegedly threaten arrest unless money is sent right away.
Authorities said scammers often request payment through gift cards, cryptocurrency, Bitcoin ATMs, wire transfers or payment apps such as Zelle, Cash App or Venmo. Officials emphasized that legitimate law enforcement officers will not call to demand payment to avoid arrest and will never request fines or fees through gift cards, cryptocurrency or payment apps.
The sheriff’s office also warned that scammers may use caller ID spoofing to make it appear the call is coming from a legitimate agency phone number. In some cases, callers may use the name of a real officer or reference personal information to appear credible.
Residents who receive such calls are urged to hang up immediately, avoid sending money or sharing personal information, and not return the call. To verify any claims, officials advise contacting the agency directly using a trusted phone number.
Authorities are asking residents to share the warning with family and friends, particularly older adults and young residents who may be targeted.
