The U.S. District Court for the District of Maryland is advising the public to be on alert for a phone scam that spoofs or fakes the Court's name and telephone number on the recipient’s voicemail and/or caller id. Callers have targeted residents around the region, claiming to be representatives of District Court and demanding payment from victims in lieu of arrest. These phone calls are fraudulent and have no connection to the United States District Court. Neither this Court nor any other law enforcement agency will ever call private citizens to threaten or demand money. The public is reminded to never give out personal information to callers that you don't know.

If you have been a recipient of one of these calls, it is recommended that you contact the Federal Trade Commission (ftc.gov) or, if you are a victim of one of these calls, please file a report with your local police department.