The Metropolitan Police Department (MPD) is warning the public of an ongoing scam in which scammers are impersonating members of MPD by spoofing MPD phone numbers to defraud victims.
Scammers are impersonating members of MPD by replicating real government phone numbers and video calling victims. During the video call, the impersonator wears a police uniform and has a fake police logo in the background. They claim that the victim was identified as purchasing illegal drugs.
The scammers are spoofing the Second District police station phone number: (202) 715-7300.
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 receive a call 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, email, or letter. 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.