PRINCE GEORGE'S CO., Md. - Police in Prince George’s County are warning residents about two ongoing scams where people pose as Pepco employees, federal agents or government officials.
The scams, which often target elderly residents, involve suspects gaining trust before stealing thousands of dollars.
What we know:
The Prince George’s County Police Department’s Financial Crimes Unit is alerting residents to two scams currently being reported.
The first involves suspects posing as Pepco utility workers. In these cases, scammers go to a victim’s home claiming an alarm was triggered indicating potential fire hazards. Once inside, they convince the victim there is a serious electrical issue requiring immediate repairs and ask for payment by check.
The suspect then cashes the check without performing any work.
Police received one such report in 2025 involving a loss of $18,500. So far in 2026, three reports have been made. In one case, a victim lost $8,300, while two other attempts were unsuccessful.
The second scam involves so-called "carrier scams," where suspects contact victims by email, text, or phone while impersonating federal agents or government officials.
Victims are told their bank accounts are compromised and instructed to withdraw large amounts of cash to be handed over to a courier for "safekeeping." In some cases, victims are directed to deposit money into cryptocurrency ATMs.
Within the last four weeks, police say they have received three carrier scam reports, with combined losses exceeding $105,000.
By the numbers:
- $18,500 lost in a Pepco impersonation scam in 2025
- $8,300 stolen in one successful Pepco scam in 2026
- 3 Pepco scam reports so far in 2026
- 3 carrier scam reports in the last four weeks
- More than $105,000 lost in carrier scams
What you can do:
If you did not arrange an appointment with Pepco, do not let anyone into your home claiming to be a utility worker. Residents are urged to contact the company directly to verify employment and any scheduled work.
Police also advise residents to never click on suspicious links or respond to unsolicited messages claiming to be from government officials or banks.
The department reminds residents to never give money, gold, gift cards, or anything of value to someone they do not know, even if the person claims to represent a legitimate organization.
If you are concerned about your bank account, contact your bank directly using the number on the back of your card.
Anyone who believes they have been the victim of a scam is urged to contact PGPD detectives at 301-516-1464.
Tips can also be submitted anonymously through Crime Solvers by calling 1-866-411-TIPS (8477), online, or through the "P3 Tips" mobile app.
The Source: This story includes information from Prince George's police.