Residents report tens of thousands in losses as scammers pose as workers and agents
Prince George’s County, MD – A series of in-person scams is prompting a warning from the Prince George’s County Police Department’s Financial Crimes Unit, which says suspects are directly approaching victims at home and through coordinated handoffs, leading to significant financial losses. The schemes involve impersonation of utility workers and government officials, with victims pressured to hand over large sums of money.
In one scam, suspects pose as Pepco utility workers and arrive unannounced at homes, often targeting older residents. They claim an alarm has been triggered indicating a potential fire hazard, then persuade victims to allow them inside and write checks for urgent repairs that are never completed.
Utility impersonation scam targeting homes
The department reports at least one case last year resulted in a loss of $18,500. So far this year, three additional reports have been filed, including one successful scam in which a victim lost $8,300. Two other attempts were unsuccessful.
“If you did not arrange an appointment with Pepco for repairs, do not let anyone into your home who is implying they are a utility worker,” the department said in its alert. “Call the company directly to verify the person’s employment and the work being done.”
Carrier scams lead to six-figure losses
A second scheme, known as a carrier scam, involves suspects contacting victims by email, text, or phone while impersonating federal agents or government officials. Victims are told their bank accounts are compromised and instructed to withdraw cash to “secure” their funds.
The suspects then arrange for a carrier to collect the cash in person, or direct victims to deposit money into cryptocurrency ATMs. Over the past four weeks, police say three such cases have been reported, with combined losses exceeding $105,000.
“If you receive this type of communication, never click a link and don’t respond,” the department said.
Officials emphasized that no legitimate agency or financial institution will request money, gold, or gift cards through unsolicited contact. “The PGPD reminds all residents to never give money, gold, gift cards or anything else of value to someone you do not know, even if they are posing as representatives from legitimate businesses, banking institutions or government agencies,” the release stated.
Residents concerned about their accounts are urged to contact their bank directly using the number on the back of their card.
Anyone who believes they have been targeted or victimized is asked to contact PGPD detectives at 301-516-1464. Tips can also be submitted anonymously through Crime Solvers at 1-866-411-TIPS, online at pgcrimesolvers.com, or through the P3 Tips mobile app.
