Source: US FBI
The FBI Charlotte Field Office and the U.S. Attorney’s Offices for the Eastern, Middle, and Western Districts of North Carolina are warning the public about a jury duty scam involving fake federal arrest warrants. The scammers call or send emails claiming victims missed jury duty and there is a federal warrant for their arrest. To add additional credibility to their claims, the fraudsters either text or email a fake arrest warrant with the names of actual North Carolina federal law enforcement officers, prosecutors, or judges. The victims are told to pay a fine via a virtual currency machine or kiosk to avoid jail time. Scammers often direct victims to make virtual currency payments which are more difficult to trace and easily moved to other wallets controlled by the fraudsters.
Additionally, criminals may manipulate or “spoof” caller ID information to make it appear the call is from a legitimate source, such as a courthouse or a government agency. Legitimate arrest warrants are not emailed or texted, they are served in person by a law enforcement officer or court official and never include a demand for payment to avoid jail time.
To avoid falling victim to common scams:
- Be wary of unsolicited phone calls, emails, or texts.
- Do not give money or personal information to anyone you don’t know.
- Trust your instincts and hang up on any caller who makes you feel pressured or uncomfortable.
- Verify the authenticity of legal claims against you with the appropriate law enforcement agency or court officials.
If you believe you have been a victim of a jury duty scam or other fraudulent scheme, file a report with the FBI’s Internet Crime Complaint Center at www.ic3.gov.