The Calvert County State’s Attorney’s Office is warning the public, particularly older adults and those with aging family members, about sophisticated scams in which fraudsters impersonate government officials, law enforcement officers, technical support personnel, or banking personnel. These criminal enterprises make contact with their victims through unsolicited phone calls, as well as emails and fraudulent internet links that contain a phone number that is purported to provide “help or assistance” with a problem. These criminals employ elaborate and sustained tactics, often lasting weeks or months, to manipulate victims into converting their assets to precious metals or cash. Victims are then instructed to hand the valuables to a courier for so-called “safe-keeping” in a secure government account. THIS IS A SCAM.
Do not meet with individuals to deliver cash or precious metals. U.S. government agencies and financial institutions will never ask you to wire money, send crypto-currency, deliver precious metals or cash, or purchase gift cards to resolve any alleged issue with your bank accounts, personal finances, or digital devices. Additionally, U.S. government agencies and financial institutions will never instruct you to keep a secret from your family.
Calvert County is not immune to these types of scams. A 47-year-old man from Columbia, Maryland, Jatin Talwar, has recently been found guilty in the Calvert County Circuit Court of attempting to steal over $160,000 from a 69-year-old victim in Dunkirk. Mr. Talwar is scheduled to be sentenced on November 9, 2026. In addition, a 50-year-old man from Ellicott City, Maryland, was recently charged in Calvert County with attempting to steal approximately $300,000 from a 90-year-old Solomons, Maryland resident.
These scams are designed to instill fear and urgency to override your better judgment. If you or someone you know has been contacted under suspicious circumstances, please contact the Calvert County Sherriff’s Office immediately.