WASHINGTON — Maryland State Police are asking generous drivers to avoid stopping on exit ramps to assist people asking for help after a recent scam.

Suspects are pretending their vehicle is disabled, flagging down passing drivers and begging for money.

Police say in addition to scamming money from drivers, the request causes major traffic delays and, in some cases, crashes.

The suspects have been spotted asking for money on the exit ramps in the area of Route 450, Annapolis Road and both the Inner and Outer loops of Interstate 495, police said. Police said they believe similar types of scams have happened in Baltimore and Harford counties, too.

The panhandlers have been spotted in a variety of vehicles — from SUVs to regular passenger vehicles. Also, they are asking to trade items such as jewelry for cash.

If you have any information about similar cases, contact the College Park Barrack at 301-345-3101.