Scammers continue to attack communities by impersonating law enforcement officers across Arkansas.
Recently, consumers were falsely told that they have failed to report to jury duty and owe a fine. Arkansas Attorney General Leslie Rutledge encourages all Arkansans who receive this call to contact the local courthouse or clerk directly.
“Intimidation and impersonation are common practices for con artists,” Rutledge said. “These criminals are becoming more brazen by offering consumers a badge number and spoofing their phone number to make the call look like it is coming from the courthouse. Scams may sound legitimate, but consumers should always confirm any information with their local courts before providing any information to the person on the other end of the phone.”
Rutledge released the following tips for consumers who are contacted by these scammers:
• Contact the local courthouse to ensure you are not on a jury duty list.
Independent reporting for Pine Bluff & Jefferson County since 1879.
• Contact local law enforcement and provide the name and badge number you received to verify the officer information and ask if you were contacted by that officer.
Court officials won’t ask for your personal information such as Social Security number, address, credit card number or any other personal information. Verifying that information could lead to other scams or identity theft.
The scammers are reportedly asking for payment of the “fine” in the form of gift cards or prepaid debit cards. Once the code on the card is turned over, the criminal has control of the card value. Once the value is redeemed, the consumer cannot get the money back.
If consumers have questions, contact the Attorney General’s office or the local U.S. Marshal’s Services.
For more information and tips to avoid scams and other consumer-related issues, contact the Arkansas Attorney General’s office at 800-482-8982 or consumer@arkansasag.gov or visit ArkansasAG.gov or facebook.com/AGLeslieRutledge.