Local law enforcement agencies are urging residents to be vigilant following reports of a new scam targeting community members. Scammers are impersonating law enforcement officers, claiming that individuals have missed jury duty and threatening arrest unless immediate payment is made.
Victims report receiving phone calls from individuals claiming to be current member of the Walker County Sheriff’s Office or other law enforcement agencies. The callers often provide false badge numbers and demand payment to avoid arrest. Payments are requested in the form of gift cards, cryptocurrencies like Bitcoin, or other unconventional means.
Important Details:
• Scam Method: Callers pose as law enforcement officers, threatening arrest for missed jury duty or a warrant.
• Payment Requests: Scammers insist on payment via gift cards, Bitcoin, or other non-traditional methods.
• Red Flags: Legitimate law enforcement agencies do not request payments over the phone or in gift cards.
“We want to emphasize that if you receive a call like this, it is a scam,” said Sheriff Clint McRae. “Legitimate law enforcement agencies will never demand payment for missed jury duty or any other legal matter in this manner.”
Residents are advised to take the following precautions:
1. Do Not Engage: Hang up if you receive a call from someone claiming to be a law enforcement officer demanding payment.
2. Verify: Contact your local law enforcement agency directly using official phone numbers to verify any claims.
3. Report Scams: If you believe you have been targeted, report the incident to your local law enforcement department and the Federal Trade Commission (FTC).
For more information on how to protect yourself from scams, visit www.ftc.gov
