Dec. 3, 2009
Ohio Supreme Court Joins Attorney General to Warn of Jury Duty Phone Scam Targeting Ohioans
The Ohio Supreme Court today joined the Ohio Attorney General’s Office in warning Ohioans of a jury duty scam that targets unsuspecting individuals, tricking them into turning over their personal information.
The scam was last heavily reported several years ago, and it has recently resurfaced throughout the state. The con plays out as follows: a scammer calls a potential victim, claiming to work for the municipal court system. The caller tells the victim a warrant has been issued for their arrest for failing to report for jury duty. In order to clear up the alleged issue, the victims are told they must provide their social security number, date of birth and in some instances a credit card number.
“This scam, like most, plays on fear. It puts the victim on the defensive, forcing them to react without necessarily thinking the situation through,” said Attorney General Richard Cordray. “The best rule of thumb is to never give out your personal information over the phone regardless of who is calling. Unless you initiate the call, you really don’t have verification of who is on the other end.”
The Supreme Court of Ohio advises Ohioans that officers of the court do not request personal information over the phone.
“Jury management is something that is administered by local courts, and citizens with questions about jury service should contact their local court directly,” said Steven C. Hollon, administrative director of the Supreme Court of Ohio.
Cordray also urges Ohioans who have become victims of this scam or any other phishing scam to immediately report the incident to local police and contact his office at www.SpeakOutOhio.gov or by calling 800.282.0515.