Queen Anne’s Co. Sheriff’s Office warning of recent phone scam

QUEEN ANNE’S CO., Md. – The Queen Anne’s County Sheriff’s Office is warning citizens of a phone scam.

We’re told the scam is circulating the community and involves individuals impersonating Sheriff’s Deputies, extorting money from citizens. The scammers reportedly call from a spoofed number, making it appear to come from the Sheriff’s Office, and falsely claim that the recipient has a warrant for their arrest, often citing missed court or federal jury duty. To avoid arrest, they tell citizens that they must make a payment over the phone immediately via gift cards, money transfer apps, or cryptocurrency.

Citizens are reminded that law enforcement will never call and ask for payments over the phone or resolve warrants, and will never ask for gift cards, money transfers, or cryptocurrency. Scammers rely on fear and urgency to pressure victims into complying.