Minnesotans Warned About the Jury Duty Scam
Minnesotans are being warned about a scam that could cost victims a lot of money. It's a phone scam called "Jury Duty" and it's been happening for over a decade.
Here's how it works: The scammer calls to let the person know they've missed jury duty (even though they weren't scheduled for duty) and that a warrant has been issued for their arrest. The scammer then explains that the matter can be resolved if the person is willing to pay a fine. At this point the scammer asks the victim to send cash and/or to give their social security number and birth date - which is used to steal their identity.
According to snopes.com this scam has been around since 2005. Their report says, "on 22 August 2005, the Minnesota Judicial Branch issued a warning about the bogus calls. The Minnesota Judicial Branch points out its courts always use the mail to send jury service summons."
Don't give out personal or financial info if you receive one of these calls.