OCEAN CITY, Md. – The Ocean City Police Department is alerting the public to an active phone scam involving callers who claim to represent local law enforcement and tell residents they have outstanding warrants that need to be paid. According to the department, several residents recently reported receiving calls from individuals falsely identifying themselves as police officers. The callers instruct recipients to send money to clear alleged warrants.
Police advise that legitimate law enforcement agencies do not request payment regarding warrants by phone and do not instruct residents to send money or personal information through digital platforms. Reported payment requests tied to this scam include PayPal, Venmo, Cash App and gift cards, which are commonly used in fraudulent schemes. Residents are urged to avoid providing personal information, payment details or banking access during unsolicited calls. Educational resources on fraud prevention and scam awareness are available at https://www.fcc.gov/general/frauds-scams-and-alerts-guides
