TWIN FALLS, Idaho (KMVT/KSVT) — Scammers are targeting Idaho residents with false claims about failing to appear for jury duty, according to Twin Falls County officials.
Residents across the state have been receiving calls and texts claiming they have warrants for missing jury duty, said Amanda Main, Twin Falls County jury commissioner.
“People are getting contacted within our community about having warrants out for missing jury duty and they’re asking for payments over the phone,” Main said.
Main said legitimate jury summons follow a specific process that scammers don’t replicate.
“It goes through the mail and it is a very long, bold piece of paper stating that it is a jury summons. That is one thing to look out for,” she said.
Main advised residents to watch for several red flags to avoid these scams.
“If they’re asking for personal information over the phone or stating that you have a warrant out for your arrest for not appearing for jury duty, it’s typically a scam,” Main said.
She added that jury commissioners only send text messages to people who have already provided their contact information to the office.
While the calls are fraudulent, Main noted there are real consequences for failing to comply with legitimate jury summons.
“You can be fined $500 and spend up to five days in jail for missing jury duty,” she said.
Main advised residents to contact her office when in doubt to avoid repercussions.
“Sometimes it’s hard to tell if it’s a scam,” Main said.
TWIN FALLS, Idaho (KMVT/KSVT) — Scammers are targeting Idaho residents with false claims about failing to appear for jury duty, according to Twin Falls County officials. Residents across the state...