Jury Duty Scams

Jury duty is essential to our justice system, ensuring a fair trial by a panel of peers. Unfortunately, scammers often exploit this civic duty, targeting unsuspecting individuals in what is known as a jury duty scam. Here we shed light on how these scams operate, and the tactics scammers employ, and the steps you can take to protect yourself from falling victim to such fraud. Additionally, we will provide information on where you can report suspected jury duty scams.

Understanding Jury Duty Scams

A jury duty scam typically begins with a phone call or an email from someone impersonating a court official, law enforcement officer, or representative of a governmental agency. The scammer claims that you have failed to appear for jury duty and are now facing legal consequences, such as fines or arrest. They create a sense of urgency and exploit the fear of facing legal trouble to manipulate victims into complying with their demands.

How the Scam Works:

1. Intimidation and Urgency: Scammers use fear tactics, creating a sense of urgency and pressuring victims to take immediate action to resolve the supposed issue.
2. Personal Information Request: The scammer asks for personal information, such as Social Security numbers, date of birth, and even financial details, under the pretense of verifying identity or resolving the matter.
3. Payment Requests: Once they have gained your trust, scammers may demand payment, often in the form of prepaid gift cards, wire transfers, or cryptocurrency, claiming it will settle the alleged fines or avoid arrest.
4. Identity Theft and Financial Loss: Providing personal information can lead to identity theft, while making payments will result in financial loss with no resolution of the non-existent jury duty issue.

Protecting Yourself from Jury Duty Scams:

1. Verify the Communication: If you receive a call or email regarding jury duty, independently verify its authenticity by contacting the relevant courthouse or agency directly. Do not use the contact details provided by the caller or in the email.
2. Never Share Personal Information: Legitimate court officials or law enforcement agencies will never request sensitive information like Social Security numbers or financial details over the phone or email.
3. Be Wary of Urgency and Threats: Scammers create pressure by using threats of arrest or fines. Remember, legitimate government agencies will not threaten you or demand immediate payment.
4. Stay Informed: Familiarize yourself with the policies and procedures of your local court system regarding jury duty. This knowledge will help you identify fraudulent claims.
5. Report Suspicious Activity: If you suspect you have encountered a jury duty scam, report it to your local law enforcement agency, the Federal Trade Commission (FTC), and the Federal Bureau of Investigation (FBI).

Where to Report Suspected Jury Duty Scams

1. Local Law Enforcement: Contact your local police department or sheriff’s office to report the incident and provide them with any information you have.
2. Federal Trade Commission (FTC): File a complaint with the FTC through their website at www.ftc.gov/complaint or by calling their toll-free hotline at 1-877-FTC-HELP.
3. Federal Bureau of Investigation (FBI): Report the scam to the FBI’s Internet Crime Complaint Center (IC3) at www.ic3.gov, providing all relevant details.

Awareness of scammers’ tactics and staying vigilant can protect you from falling victim to a jury duty scam. Legitimate court officials and law enforcement agencies will always follow proper protocols, never demanding immediate payments or sensitive personal information. By verifying communications independently and reporting suspicious activity, we can work together to combat jury duty scams and keep our communities safe.