(KTVI)- Criminals are using civic duty to scam victims. People across the United States are reporting getting phone calls where they are threatened with prosecution or a fine for failing to comply with federal or state jury service. Targeted victims are then asked to provide confidential information, which could lead to identity theft and fraud.
U.S. District Courts are warning people that the calls are fake. Federal courts do not require the reporting of any sensitive information, including social security numbers, credit card numbers, over the telephone. Most contact between a federal court and a prospective juror will be through the mail.
If you receive a phone call like this, do not provide the requested information. Hang up and then call the Clerk of Court’s office of the U.S. District Court in your area.
Southern District of Illinois, call the office of Clerk of Court Nancy Rosenstengel at 618-482-9371.
St. Louis – Eastern Division, call the office of Clerk of Court James G. Woodward at 314-244-7900.
