Washington County, Maryland – The Washington County Sheriff’s Office is warning residents about an ongoing scam involving fraudulent notifications claiming to come from district courts regarding cash bond refunds.
According to the sheriff’s office, scammers are contacting individuals and creating a sense of urgency by threatening arrest or legal consequences unless immediate payment is made. Authorities emphasized that legitimate courts do not request payments through digital apps, gift cards, or cryptocurrency.
Officials said scammers often pose as court employees, use real judges’ names, court addresses, and spoofed phone numbers to appear legitimate. In some cases, victims receive fake letters, emails, or text messages containing QR codes or kiosk instructions directing them to submit payment.
The sheriff’s office stressed that courts communicate through official correspondence and established procedures, not by demanding immediate digital payments. Residents are urged not to send money or provide personal or financial information to anyone claiming to represent the court without independent verification.
Law enforcement advised anyone who receives a suspicious notice to contact the court or sheriff’s office directly using phone numbers listed on official government websites — not numbers provided in the message. Authorities also recommend hanging up immediately if contacted by phone and reporting the incident.
Residents are encouraged to report suspected scams to the Federal Trade Commission, the FBI’s Internet Crime Complaint Center (IC3.gov), and local law enforcement to help prevent further victimization.
Officials said these scams frequently target working adults, older residents, and individuals with prior court involvement, but anyone can be affected. The sheriff’s office emphasized that public awareness is critical to reducing the success of these schemes.
For commuters, students, and residents across Washington County, deputies said staying informed and verifying all court-related communications can prevent financial loss and identity theft.
The sheriff’s office said scam activity remains ongoing and urged the public to share the warning with friends and family.
