'I've Been Paid to Kill You': Threatening Text Messages are Scam, Harford Sheriff Says

HARFORD COUNTY, MD — Authorities said that threatening text messages have been received Tuesday morning in Harford County and across Maryland. "I've been paid to kill you but wish to spare you..." the message states, noting the recipient is at risk.

People are advised not to reply. Responding to the text messages will download all information on a person's phone, according to Maryland State Police, which advised citizens to delete the text message if received.

Full statement from the Harford County Sheriff's Office on Dec. 27:

"The Harford County Sheriff’s Office has learned of a scam targeting not just the citizens of Harford County, but residents all across the State of Maryland. We have received numerous complaints, just this morning, from individuals receiving threatening text messages. The text comes from isigman@conejousd.org and states 'I’ve been paid to kill you but wish to spare you, inform the police or anyone else you will die, to be spared contact vsdky@hotmail.com immediately via email.' This is a scam that has been reported state wide. If you receive this text message, do not respond or attempt to email either account."

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