Missed jury duty scams are on the increase, the 4th Judicial Circuit and Duval County Clerk warned Jan. 18.
A news release said that most often the scam caller pretends to be a law enforcement officer, state attorney, court official or deputy clerk saying that an individual failed to appear for jury duty or some other court obligation.
Sometimes the callers will use the name of an actual judge or public official. The scammer will advise that a fine was imposed and if it is not paid, a warrant will be issued for your arrest.
“To resolve the problem, they may ask for your bank account number or suggest purchasing a prepaid debit card or cryptocurrency. They may even ask for personal information such as your social security number. Please do not do this!” the release warns.
The release said the court, clerk’s office or law enforcement officers do not call or email residents to request payment for missing jury duty or other court obligations.
The release said any official communication related to a legal matter will always be in writing. The courts will never request payment via prepaid debit card or cryptocurrency.
If unsure about a call, contact the clerk’s office at 904-255-2000 or report the call to the Jacksonville Sheriff’s Office nonemergency line at 904-630-0500.
“While this scam has unfortunately been around for years, the recent increase in cases around Florida made it a good time to remind the public that they should remain vigilant,” Duval County Clerk Jody Phillips said in the release.
“When in doubt, you can always contact our office directly and we would be glad to assist you.”