Charles County, MD – Residents across Charles County are being warned today after authorities say scammers are posing as law enforcement officers and demanding immediate payment over the phone for fake arrest warrants.
According to the Charles County Sheriff’s Office (CCSO), multiple citizens have recently reported receiving calls from individuals claiming to be sheriff’s deputies. The callers allegedly tell victims they have an outstanding warrant and must pay a fine right away to avoid arrest.
Officials say the scammers instruct victims to purchase prepaid credit cards or gift cards and provide the payment information over the phone.
The sheriff’s office stressed that CCSO will never call residents to demand payment for warrants or fines, and legitimate law enforcement agencies do not accept payments via gift cards, Green Dot cards, or prepaid debit cards.
“If someone calls claiming you owe money and asks for payment using gift cards or prepaid cards, you are very likely being scammed,” the agency said in its alert.
Authorities are urging residents to hang up immediately and independently verify any claims by calling the official phone number of the agency or business involved. Residents should never rely on contact information provided by the caller.
The sheriff’s office noted that scams like this occur daily and often succeed because the callers create fear and urgency. Officials are encouraging residents to talk with elderly family members, friends, and neighbors, who are often targeted in impersonation scams.
For more information on common scams and prevention tips, residents can visit the FBI’s scam awareness page at fbi.gov/scams-and-safety.
Anyone who believes they may have been targeted or victimized is encouraged to report the incident to local law enforcement.
This article was produced by a journalist and may include AI-assisted input. All content is reviewed for accuracy and fairness.
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