PITTSBORO, N.C. — Authorities in Chatham County are alerting the public to a reemerging scam involving jury duty, where fraudsters exploit the sheriff’s office identity to create a sense of legitimacy. Deceptive callers are falsely using an official number and deputies’ names, claiming the victims have missed jury duty and threatening them with arrest unless they pay a fine immediately.
Community members have reported receiving these alarming calls, during which the scammers assert that the target has neglected to show up to court and must remedy their failure by providing payment. These demands are often accompanied by threats of legal action, and the urgency and authority the scammers project can be convincingly intimidating.
The Chatham County Sheriff’s Office emphasizes that it does not use phone calls to handle such legal matters, specifically stating they would never solicit payments over the phone or threaten arrest in this manner. Any phone call that includes these components should be considered fraudulent.
The scam involves tactics like phone number spoofing, which manipulates caller ID systems to display a reputable number—this time, the sheriff’s office’s direct line. Such techniques are central to the scammer’s strategy, making the threat appear more credible.
To combat these deceptive calls, the sheriff’s office advises hanging up immediately and reporting the incident by calling their non-emergency line, available 24 hours a day. Residents can also contact local law enforcement to help verify any dubious claims.
Public awareness is crucial. Citizens are encouraged to inform friends, family, and neighbors about this scam to prevent more people from falling victim. It’s advised to always scrutinize unsolicited calls that demand money or personal information. When in doubt, residents should hang up and reach out directly to the sheriff’s office through their official contact paths.
Scams like this are not unique to Chatham County or North Carolina, reflecting a nationwide issue where scammers impersonate law enforcement or other authority figures to coerce money from victims. Recognizing and understanding the signs of such scams is an essential step in safeguarding one’s personal information and finances.
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