U.S. Marshals Service warns of jury duty phone scam
The U.S. Marshals Service’s Pittsburgh office issued a warning Wednesday that a nationwide phone scam in which callers pose as law enforcement officers to solicit “fines” from callers has been reported in the area.
The agency said scammers claim to be U.S. marshals, other law enforcement or court officials, and tell victims they can pay a fine in lieu of arrest for failing to report for jury duty.
The agency’s statement said it “does not call anyone to arrange payment of fines over the phone for failure to appear for jury duty or any other infraction.”
The statement also warned callers may provide badge numbers and other information to appear more credible.It urged the public not to give personal or financial information to unknown callers.
Those who believe they’ve fallen victim to the scam may report the incident to local police, the U.S. Marshals Service or FBI.