The Metropolitan Police Department is warning the public of an ongoing scam in which suspects spoof MPD phone numbers to defraud victims.
Scammers are impersonating members of MPD by replicating real government phone numbers. The scammers impersonate a detective and tell the victims they have a fine to pay. The scammers ask victims to verify their personal information and asking for credit card information to pay the fine. The scammers tell victims they face arrest if they don’t make a payment by phone.
The scammers are spoofing the Sixth District police station phone number: (202) 698-0880.
However, the public should be aware that scammers often spoof various numbers, including those of law enforcement and government entities, to appear legitimate.
If you happen to receive unsolicited phone calls similar in nature:
- Don’t feel pressured to act. Scammers may have some public information about you (like your name and address), but that does not mean they are legitimate. Verify by contacting the appropriate agency directly using customer service info on their public websites.
- MPD will never demand payment by phone. Do not share your credit card number, personal information, or other financial information. Do not wire transfer money or transfer funds to anyone you do not know.
- Share what you know with others. By telling your friends and family members about the scam, you can help protect your community.
We remind the public that The Metropolitan Police Department will never solicit anyone for monetary funds, bank information, or social security numbers.
For more information on scams and fraud visit: https://www.justice.gov/criminal/criminal-fraud/report-fraud
Please visit the DC Courts Active Warrant List to inquire if you have an active D.C. Court arrest warrant, or contact the D.C. Courts directly at (202) 879-1010.
If you have questions about your jury summons, contact the D.C. Court Juror Office at (202) 879-4604 or by email at [email protected].
If you have been a victim of this scam in the District of Columbia, please contact the Financial and Cyber Crimes Unit at (202) 727-4159 or [email protected].