Law enforcement officials in Galveston County are raising alarms about a surge in jury duty scams targeting local residents. Scammers posing as court officials or law enforcement officers are calling individuals, claiming they’ve missed jury duty and must pay fines to avoid arrest. The fraudulent scheme has victimized several residents, with authorities urging vigilance and awareness.
How the Scam Works
Scammers typically contact their victims by phone, claiming to represent the Galveston County Sheriff’s Office or local courts. They inform residents they’ve failed to appear for jury duty and face immediate legal consequences unless they pay a fine. The payment is often demanded through untraceable methods like prepaid debit cards, gift cards, or online transfers.
Some scammers take it a step further by spoofing official phone numbers, making the calls appear legitimate. They may even provide fake badge numbers or case IDs to add an air of credibility.
Warning Signs
Authorities stress that no legitimate court or law enforcement agency will demand payment over the phone for missed jury duty or other violations. Key red flags to watch for include:
- Calls demanding immediate payment for fines or fees.
- Requests for payment via gift cards, prepaid debit cards, or online payment platforms.
- Threats of arrest or legal action if payment is not made immediately.
- Caller ID displaying official-sounding numbers or names.
What To Do If You Are Targeted
If you receive a suspicious call, law enforcement advises the following steps:
- Do Not Provide Personal Information: Avoid sharing sensitive details like your Social Security number, bank account information, or credit card numbers.
- Hang Up Immediately: If the caller pressures you to make a payment, end the call.
- Verify the Claim: Contact the Galveston County courts or sheriff’s office directly using official contact information to confirm whether there’s an issue.
Report the Incident: File a report with local law enforcement and the Federal Trade Commission (FTC) at reportfraud.ftc.gov.
Protecting the Community
Galveston County officials are working to raise awareness about these scams and protect residents from falling victim. Sheriff’s Office representatives urge the public to remain cautious and skeptical of unsolicited calls, especially those involving threats or urgent payment demands.
“Scammers prey on fear and urgency to exploit their victims. Taking a moment to verify the legitimacy of the call can prevent significant financial loss,” a spokesperson emphasized.
Stay Informed
Residents are encouraged to spread the word about these scams to friends and family, particularly those who may be more vulnerable to deceptive tactics. By staying informed and vigilant, the community can help reduce the impact of this growing threat.
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