WASHINGTON, D.C. — The Metropolitan Police Department is warning residents about phone scams in which callers impersonate police officers and use real government phone numbers to make their demands appear legitimate.
According to MPD, the callers tell potential victims that they owe an outstanding fine and may threaten them with arrest if they do not pay. The scammers may also direct people to download apps, confirm personal information, or provide credit card details.
MPD said it will never demand payment over the phone or solicit bank information, Social Security numbers, or other financial details. Residents who receive suspicious calls should avoid acting under pressure and should verify any claim by contacting the agency directly through contact information listed on an official government website.
Police also advise residents not to wire or transfer money to unknown people and not to share card numbers or personal information. MPD encouraged residents to tell family members and friends about the scheme so others can recognize it.
People who believe they were targeted or victimized in the District can contact MPD’s Financial and Cyber Crimes Unit at 202-727-4159. MPD’s full guidance is available in its official scam alert.
Representative file photo. Photo by Ehimetalor Unuabona via Wikimedia Commons, CC0.
The Washington Herald
editorial@thewashingtonherald.com
Washington, D.C.
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