Chicago, IL – Residents from the East Coast to the Midwest are being warned about a growing jury duty scam involving fake websites and demands for payment in cryptocurrency or gift cards.
According to the Federal Trade Commission, scammers are allegedly calling individuals while posing as law enforcement officers, claiming the person has missed jury duty and must pay a fine to avoid arrest. The FTC reported Monday that these callers are now instructing victims to visit official-looking websites to enter sensitive personal details, including birthdates and Social Security numbers, or to pay fines that can reach up to $10,000.
The scam sites feature government-style graphics and URLs designed to appear legitimate. According to the FTC, scammers repeatedly insist that victims pay fines using untraceable methods like cryptocurrency or gift cards—methods no real government agency would ever request. The agency cautions that law enforcement will never threaten arrest by phone or demand payment through these channels.
Anyone who receives such a call should hang up immediately and report the attempt to ReportFraud.ftc.gov. Officials urge residents not to click on links or use phone numbers provided by the caller. Instead, they recommend verifying jury duty notices through the official website of the local court or by calling a publicly listed number.
These evolving scams are affecting households across major cities and rural communities alike. The FTC stresses the importance of staying alert and confirming suspicious requests with trusted sources to avoid falling victim.
This article was produced by a journalist and may include AI-assisted input. All content is reviewed for accuracy and fairness.
Follow us on Instagram & Facebook for more relevant new stories and SUPPORT LOCAL INDEPENDENT NEWS! Have a tip? Message us!
