Fake cops fake calls in d. C. Phone scam demanding bogus fine payments

Fake cops fake calls in D.C. phone scam demanding bogus fine payments

by
April 25, 2025
Con artists posing as D.C. detectives use fake fines and spoofed numbers to scam residents out of money.

WASHINGTON, D.C. — Phone calls demanding payment for fake fines have been circulating across the District as scammers impersonate D.C. police, using spoofed government numbers to pressure unsuspecting victims.

The scheme involves callers posing as detectives, claiming the recipient faces arrest unless an immediate fine is paid over the phone by credit card. To appear legitimate, scammers have been spoofing the Seventh District police station’s number, (202) 698-1500, among others.

Victims are told to verify personal details and provide financial information under the threat of being taken into custody if payment is not made. However, officials stressed that no member of the Metropolitan Police Department would ever solicit payments or request sensitive information by phone.

Scam alert issued as investigation continues

Law enforcement agencies warn that these types of fraud often involve the use of public information such as names or addresses to appear credible. The scam may also involve various other spoofed government phone numbers.

The public is urged to avoid sharing personal, financial, or credit card details with unknown callers. Anyone receiving such calls is encouraged to independently verify claims by contacting the agency directly through official channels.

Those who believe they may have been targeted or victimized by this scam are asked to contact MPD’s Financial and Cyber Crimes Unit at (202) 727-4159 or via email at mpd.fraud-unit@dc.gov.

Key Points

  • Scammers spoof D.C. police phone numbers to demand fake fine payments by phone
  • Victims threatened with arrest unless immediate credit card payment is made
  • Public urged not to provide financial information over the phone to unknown callers

Phil Stilton

Phil Stilton

Phil Stilton is the Editor and Publisher of Shore News Network, an independent digital news organization covering New Jersey, national politics, public policy, public safety, and community affairs. With years of experience reporting on local government, elections, law enforcement, and issues impacting residents throughout New Jersey, Stilton has built a reputation for delivering timely news, in-depth reporting, and accountability journalism.

As the founder of Shore News Network, Stilton oversees editorial operations, investigative reporting, and breaking news coverage while working closely with journalists, public officials, and community leaders. His reporting has covered municipal government, state politics, federal policy, public records investigations, emergency management, and major news events affecting local communities.

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