This one sounds so simple you’d think it couldn’t be true. But the Jury Duty Scam that once made its rounds in 2006 is back locally, catching consumers off guard with a phone call.
In short, individuals receive calls stating you failed to report for jury duty. When you assert you didn’t receive a notice to serve, they say they need to verify your information in order to call off the warrant that is out for your arrest. There are few things that can snap a consumer into alert mode like the threat of police action, and so unfortunately some have been coaxed to divulge personal information, like birthday, social security number, and as the FBI notes, even a credit card number.
The agency goes on to inform consumers that this jury duty scam is just one more way fraudsters try to steal your identity. As always, never give personal information to an unsolicited caller.
Your BBB says it’s always better to be safe than sorry. If you’re unsure, ask for the caller’s name, address, and phone number, then verify they are who they say they are. Call your BBB for assistance.
Thanks to Debra, our Business Relations Specialist, who once again tipped me off to this one. It seems the Hoosier media outlets have been trying to get the message out, as well (see links below).
Courier & Press, Chesterton Tribune, The Herald Bulletin (Anderson), WLKY (New Albany)
