Don't give strangers your money. Learn how to protect yourself from frauds and scams. If you can SPOT A SCAM you can STOP A SCAM.
Be Suspicious:
- Were you contacted by someone claiming to be with local, state or federal law enforcement?
- Did they say your retirement or other important financials were hacked and must be safeguarded?
- Have you been told to convert funds into gold bars?
- Have you been told a courier will meet you at a specific location to pick up the gold from you?
Remember: S.T.O.P.
- Stop - look for red flags: urgency, fear, authority or greed.
- Time - take your time; don't be pressured.
- Object - law enforcement will not offer to protect your assets.
- Pause - before committing to anything, contact a law enforcement agency to verify all information.
Are you a victim? Call police non-emergency dispatch at 410-313-2200 or file a report online: https://www.howardcountymd.gov/police/file-online-report
Learn how to recognize a scam
HCPD and other local jurisdictions have seen several instances of "distraction thefts" targeting older residents in shopping and grocery store parking lots.
Typically, in this type of theft or “jewelry scam,” suspects may approach their victims with friendly conversation—asking for directions, offering compliments, or even placing “gifted” jewelry on them. During this interaction, they use quick, deceptive movements to steal valuables the victim is already wearing.
Detectives are encouraging community members to take the following precautions:
- Be aware of your surroundings, especially while wearing jewelry
- Do not engage with strangers who approach unexpectedly
- Remove any item placed on you and walk away
- Never allow anyone to touch or remove your personal property
If you are approached and feel unsafe, contact police immediately via 911.
If you are a victim of this crime but have not yet reported it, please do so through our non-emergency dispatch: 410-313-2200
Postal inspectors, along with HCPD, are reminding consumers to beware of imposter scams: the person on the other end of that digital communication might not be who they claim to be.
These scams are designed to steal money and identity. Each of the four types of imposter scams starts with messages like, “I’m in trouble…,” “I need…,” “You’ve won!…,” or “I have a great offer for you!” These scammers lull consumers into a false sense of trust, gain access to privileged information, and then drain financial accounts.
You don’t have to be a victim. If you recognize a scam, you can stop a scam.
Report suspected theft, fraud and scams related to the U.S. Mail, including:
• sweepstakes scams
• lottery scams
• online auctions
• chain letters
• investments
• romance scams
If you believe you've fallen victim to one of these scams, report it to local police or https://www.uspis.gov/report.
The warm weather brings everyone out of hibernation—including scammers. Reports of scams and deception burglaries typically increase during spring and summer months. Residents should use the following tips to avoid being victimized, and share this information with family, friends, and neighbors, especially senior citizens, who are sometimes targeted for scams.
Scammers often will take your money and do shoddy work, or never do the work at all, or may pose as utility workers.
Common types of scams include:
- Driveway paving and resealing
- Tree trimming and removal
- Utility service for gas or water problems
- Roof repairs or inspection
Sometimes criminals are looking to distract you—one keeps you occupied while the other sneaks into your house. If someone seems eager to look inside your home, or seems to be trying to distract you, close and lock the door and call 911. Non-emergency solicitor complaints should be directed to 410-313-2200.
If you need work done in your home, follow these tips:
- Request references from prospective contractors
- Be suspicious of unsolicited offers and services
- Don't feel pressured to decide on the spot
- Ask to see contractors’ required license
- Always obtain a written contract for the work
- Don't share personal or financial information with prospective contractors
- Verify the phone number and physical location of the business before agreeing to any work
- Jot down the license plate of the company vehicle, just in case
While some reputable companies do offer their services door-to-door, they are required to possess a Howard County peddler and solicitor card. Residents should request to see this ID in addition to a company ID.
To report an unregistered salesperson, or get more information about shopping for home improvement services, contact the Howard County Office of Consumer Protection by phone at 410-313-6420 or by e-mail at consumer@howardcountymd.gov.
Still have your doubts? Contractors and landscapers must be registered through Maryland state agencies. Ask for their license numbers and verify through the Maryland Department of License and Regulation using their Licensing Queries function at http://www.dllr.state.md.us/pq/.