Carroll County, MD – Law enforcement officials in central Maryland are warning residents to stay alert as scams targeting individuals through phone calls, texts, and emails continue to rise this week.
According to the Carroll County Sheriff’s Office, scammers often attempt to pressure or frighten victims into acting quickly by creating urgent, unexpected situations. These may include claims that a loved one has been arrested or that a warrant has been issued, followed by demands for immediate payment.
Authorities say scammers frequently request money through nontraditional methods such as gift cards, cash apps, or cryptocurrency—clear warning signs of fraudulent activity. Officials emphasize that legitimate government agencies will never demand payment using these methods.
Residents who receive suspicious messages or calls are advised to hang up immediately or delete the communication without responding. Continuing to engage with scammers can increase the risk of financial loss or identity theft.
According to officials, anyone concerned about a potential scam should independently verify the situation by contacting their local law enforcement agency using a trusted phone number found on an official website. Residents are urged not to call numbers or follow instructions provided by unknown individuals.
The sheriff’s office encourages the public to stay informed and cautious, especially as scams evolve in sophistication and frequency across the region.
For additional information on avoiding scams, residents can visit the Federal Trade Commission’s consumer protection website.
