Scam Alert: Jury Duty

While you should remain vigilant of all potential identity theft threats, some are especially alarming. The “Jury Duty” scam is remarkably easy to fall for. Learn how it works so that you can stay safe if you receive this ominous call.

Imagine this scenario: you receive a call from a jury coordinator informing you that a warrant has been issued for your arrest due to your failure to appear for jury duty. When you explain that you never even received a summons for jury duty, the coordinator asks for your Social Security number and date of birth in order to verify your information and cancel the warrant. Of course you're willing to provide this information; there's obviously been a mistake and you want to avoid arrest at all costs. Problem is, this is all part of the scam. There never was a warrant, and you've just had your identity stolen.

This scam has been reported in 11 states so far and is growing. So if you receive a phone call that seems suspicious or threatening, don't panic. Simply ask for more information, the caller's supervisor, or a number at which you can reach them after doing more research. Nothing foils an identity thief like an educated response.

Source: Equifax