- James D. Lynch
In various parts of the United States, residents are being targeted by phone calls and emails, threatening prosecution or a warrant issued for their arrest for failing to appear for jury service. This is a scam.
In the calls and emails, the scammer will pressure the victim to provide confidential data, potentially leading to identity theft and fraud. The scammer may also ask for money, gift cards, money orders, etc. for payment to "clear the warrant."
Courts do not require anyone to provide any sensitive information in a telephone call or email. Most contact between a court and a prospective juror will be through the U.S. mail, and any phone contact by real court officials will not include requests for confidential data, such as Social Security numbers or credit card numbers.
Persons receiving a scam phone call or e-mail should report it to their local law enforcement agency.
