MD State Police Warn Of Phone Scam Where Callers Impersonate Cops

PIKESVILLE, MD — Maryland State Police are warning residents of a new phone scam where callers impersonate cops to obtain money and financial information from victims.

According to a news release, state police have received multiple reports from Marylanders claiming someone called them claiming to be a state trooper or police officer. Residents told police the scammers tried to obtain financial information or money due to a "police investigation." Callers also asked for donations "to support law enforcement and their families," police said.

According to police, scammers have used a law enforcement officer's actual name to gain their victim's trust.

"The Maryland State Police does not call individuals and request money from anyone under any circumstances," authorities said in a news release. "Residents are urged to be cautious of unsolicited phone calls."

Police encouraged residents to follow a few other tips when receiving suspicious phone calls:

• Never provide personal identifying information over the phone unless you have verified the source.
• Never provide payment information over the phone unless you have verified the source.
• Police will never call and request money for fines, arrest warrants, fundraisers, etc.
• If you do not trust the source and want to verify, look up the unit, group, or barrack they said they are from and call the listed number directly.
• If you believe you have provided information to a scam, please immediately notify your financial institutions.