On March 13, the Middlesex Sheriff’s Office warned locals to be cautious of arrest and jury duty phone scams that target people “using sophisticated tactics via text, email and online platforms.” Using the name of current or retired law enforcement officers, perpetrators have insisted that individuals have missed their jury duty appointments or threatened their arrest for “failing to pay fines or fees.” According to the same statement, scammers have asked individuals to make up their payments through cryptocurrency, wire transfers or gift cards, doing so in “high-pressure scenarios where you are encouraged to send payment as soon as possible.” In some cases, scammers have asked individuals to go to specific locations to meet with law enforcement officers.

“Please remember that no legitimate law enforcement agencies will contact you this way,” the statement assures. Signs of a scam can include unsolicited calls, texts or emails from unknown individuals that request sensitive information such as social security numbers. The statement also stresses that spelling errors in emails and text messages are frequent in scam attempts. 

Beyond jury duty and arrest scams, the MSO presented other common instances of fraud. Some scammers have impersonated the Internal Revenue Service officials as a means to demand instant payment and threaten arrest. Others have claimed that individuals have unpaid tolls in an attempt to “steal money and sensitive information.” Scammers have also posed as bank employees, insisting that the individual has made suspicious charges on their accounts and attempting to persuade them to give their account number or security codes to “verify” the non-existent fraudulent activity. In some instances, providing this information can give scammers access to funds they were seeking.

The sheriff’s office suggests that anyone who receives suspicious contact should stop corresponding with said individual and contact their local authorities. 

Additionally, the Middlesex Sheriff’s Office utilizes its initiative, the Law Enforcement and Residents Network, to educate residents about the numerous forms scams can take, tips to protect themselves against these tactics and general warning signs to look for. The program first launched in April 2016, giving informal and formal presentations that prioritize scam and fraud awareness.