Today, we’re shedding light on a scam that’s becoming increasingly sophisticated and targeting unsuspecting individuals in Kentucky. Let’s break it down and make sure you’re armed with the knowledge to stay safe.
The Scam: Fake Arrest Warrants
Scammers are sending fake arrest warrants that look incredibly real. They often include official-looking elements like the Kentucky Court of Justice seal, a case number, and charges such as failure to appear or missed jury duty. These fraudulent warrants demand payment to avoid arrest.
How the Scam Works
- Official-Looking Documents: Scammers create fake warrants that include convincing details like official seals and signatures.
- Phony Phone Numbers: They may use fake caller ID numbers to make it look like the call is coming from a court or government agency.
- Demand for Payment: Victims are instructed to call a number or provide personal information, often being asked to pay fines over the phone or through gift cards.
Key Points from the Kentucky Court of Justice
- No Phone, Text, or Email Warrants: A real arrest warrant will never be served via phone, text, or email.
- No Payment Requests: Kentucky law enforcement will never ask for payment over the phone or request gift card numbers to settle legal obligations.
- Verify with Circuit Court Clerk: If you receive a suspicious notice, contact the Circuit Court Clerk in the relevant county to verify its authenticity.
- Report Scams: If you believe you’ve been targeted, contact local law enforcement immediately.
How to Protect Yourself
- Stay Skeptical: Be wary of unexpected calls or messages claiming you have legal issues.
- Don’t Share Personal Information: Never provide personal details or payment information to unsolicited callers.
- Verify Legitimacy: Always verify with the official Circuit Court Clerk if you receive any suspicious communication.
- Know the Red Flags: Payments requested via gift cards or over the phone are major red flags.
Final Thoughts
Scammers are getting smarter, but with the right knowledge, you can stay one step ahead. Remember, a legitimate arrest warrant will not come via phone or email, and law enforcement will never ask for payment in this manner.
For more on this, read here