The Financial Crimes Unit is issuing an alert to residents about two scams currently being reported to the department. In both of these scams, suspects make direct personal contact with their victims.
The first scam involves suspects posing as Pepco utility workers. The scammers go to a victim’s home, often elderly victims, claiming an alarm was triggered indicating potential fire hazards in the home. Once inside of the victim’s residence, the suspect convinces the victim there is a serious electrical issue requiring immediate attention. The victim is asked to write a check for the needed repairs. The suspect then cashes the check without performing any actual work. The PGPD received one such report in 2025 with a loss of $18,500 to the victim. So far in 2026, we’ve received three reports. In one of the cases, the scammer was successful and stole $8,300 from the victim. The other two attempts were unsuccessful.
If you did not arrange an appointment with Pepco for repairs, do not let anyone into your home who is implying they are a utility worker. Call the company directly to verify the person’s employment and the work being done.
The PGPD’s Financial Crimes Unit is also getting reports of carrier scams. In these cases, suspects initiate contact with victims via email, text, or a phone call, often impersonating federal agents or government officials. The suspects convince victims their bank accounts are compromised and their money needs to be secured immediately. Victims are instructed to withdraw large amounts of cash and hand it over to a carrier who comes in person to collect the money for safekeeping. In other such cases, victims have also been instructed to deposit the cash in cryptocurrency ATMs. If you receive this type of communication, never click a link and don’t respond. Within the last four weeks, we’ve received three carrier scam reports. Combined, the victims lost more than $105,000.
The PGPD reminds all residents to never give money, gold, gift cards or anything else of value to someone you do not know, even if they are posing as representatives from legitimate businesses, banking institutions or government agencies. If you are worried about your bank account, contact your bank directly using the number on the back of your bank card.
If you believe you have been the victim of any scam, please call us. We are here to help. PGPD detectives can be reached at 301-516-1464.
Anyone with information who wants to contact Crime Solvers may call 1-866-411-TIPS (8477), or go online at www.pgcrimesolvers.com, or use the “P3 Tips” mobile app (search “P3 Tips” in the Apple Store or Google Play to download the app onto your mobile device.) You can remain anonymous.
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