Maryland State Police are warning residents about a phone scam in which callers impersonate law enforcement officers to obtain personal or financial information.
Authorities say scammers are contacting residents while claiming to be police officers or troopers and telling victims they need information related to a police investigation or asking for donations to support law enforcement. In some cases, the callers reportedly use the real names of officers in an attempt to gain trust. Police emphasize that law enforcement agencies do not call or text individuals to request money.
Officials advise residents never to provide personal or payment information over the phone unless the caller’s identity has been verified. Anyone who receives a suspicious call should independently look up the phone number for the police agency and contact them directly. Those who believe they may have shared information with scammers are encouraged to contact their financial institutions and report the incident to local police or file a complaint at ic3.gov.
