Phone scammers are back, threatening Gainesville residents in jury duty hoax

The Gainesville Police Department said Tuesday it has been fielding some phone calls from residents who have been the target of phone scammers.

 

Cpl. Jessica Van said the latest scam involves phone callers who tell residents they have missed jury duty and face arrest.

 

"Someone [claims] to be a deputy with the U.S. Marshals," Van said. "The person then claims the person that received the phone call missed jury duty and as a result, owes a fine."

 

The potential victims are instructed to place money on a pre-paid card and mail it to the caller to pay the fine. 

 

Van said the Gainesville Police Department received two complaint calls about the scam this past Friday; she said there have been other complaints lodged recently, as well. 

 

Van said the public needs to be aware the scam is active not just in Gainesville, but also in other parts of the country.

 

"Do not provide any personal information on the phone and contact law enforcement to report any suspicious activity," Van said.