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DC Police warn public of police impersonator phone scams

Police have already received multiple reports of the scammers extorting locals.

WASHINGTON — DC Police are warning the public about police impersonator phone calls, where callers are reaching out, pretending to be representatives of MPD and falsely threatening criminal legal action in exchange for money. 

Police say they've already received multiple reports of the scammers extorting locals, claiming that federal subpoenas and warrants have been issued against them. Police say that they are not members of the department.

MPD released a list of reminders if you find yourself at the end of one of these calls:

  • Don’t give in to pressure to take immediate action.

  • Don’t engage in any conversation, as scammers may record your response.

  • Don’t provide your credit card number, bank account information, or other personal information to a caller.

  • Don’t send money if a caller tells you to wire money or pay with a prepaid debit card or gift card.

  • Don’t travel to any location the caller asked you to go to

Instead, call your local police department immediately to report this crime.

The Metropolitan Police Department will never solicit anyone for monetary funds.

If you have been a victim of this scam in the District, please contact the Financial and Cyber Crimes Unit at 202-727-4159 or mpd.fraud-unit@dc.gov.

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