Scammers Target Seniors: Howard County Police

HOWARD COUNTY, MD — Before picking up the phone from an unknown number, authorities are advising people to be cautious and take their time despite any pressure coming from the other end of the line. Scammers are trying to convince senior citizens in Howard County to fork over money for "missing jury duty," and in more than a dozen cases have pretended there is a warrant for the victim's arrest that will be voided if a fine is paid over the phone, Howard County government officials warn.

In the scam, the caller claims to be from the Howard County Sheriff's Office and directs the victims to pay a fine over the phone using a Green Dot prepaid card. One senior citizen victimized recently in Howard County lost more than $860 in the scam, officials said.

The sheriff's office and police department say they will never demand payment over the phone.

Some scammers may also pretend to be with the IRS and BGE.

Here is guidance provided by the Howard County Police Department, Howard County Sheriff's Office and Howard County Office of Consumer Affairs:

• Never give out personal or financial information over the phone.
• Beware of unknown callers.
• Do not feel pressured to make a decision in the moment.

Have you been the victim of a telephone scam? Call the Howard County Police Department at 410-313-2200 or file a police report online.

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