Anne Arundel officials warn of fake police calls demanding money
ANNAPOLIS, MD — A wave of phone scams is targeting Anne Arundel County residents, with fraudsters impersonating police officers and threatening legal trouble unless immediate payments are made, authorities said in a public warning Thursday.
The Anne Arundel County Police Department reported two recent scam attempts involving callers posing as law enforcement officials — using spoofed numbers and even the names of real officers — to pressure victims into handing over personal or financial information.
In one case, a scammer called a community member using a number that appeared to be from the police department, claiming to be an officer involved in a federal investigation. The caller referenced a long-closed credit card account and warned the victim not to tell anyone — a hallmark tactic in these high-pressure scams. The intended victim grew suspicious and hung up, then notified police.
In a second report, a resident received a voicemail from someone claiming to be a sergeant with the Anne Arundel County Sheriff’s Office, demanding $1,500 to avoid penalties for supposedly missing jury duty.
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Officials reiterated that no legitimate law enforcement agency will ever demand immediate payment over the phone, especially using gift cards, wire transfers, or cryptocurrency.
Police urged residents to look for key red flags, including threats of arrest, secrecy, and pressure to act immediately. Scammers often use tactics like keeping the victim on the line to prevent them from asking for help or verifying the story.
Anyone receiving a suspicious call is advised to take a pause, hang up, and contact the agency directly using verified contact information. Police stressed that no personal details — including Social Security numbers or banking information — should be shared with unsolicited callers.
Incidents should be reported immediately to local law enforcement.
Key Points
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- Scammers are impersonating Anne Arundel County police and demanding money in fake legal threats
- One victim was told not to speak to anyone and was pressured to pay $1,500 for missing jury duty
- Police say law enforcement will never demand payment over the phone or use gift cards or crypto
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