**FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE**

**Jury Duty Scam Alert**

**MOHAVE COUNTY, AZ (November 18, 2024)** – The County Jury Commissioner’s office has issued a warning about a resurgent scam that exploits people’s fears. A local resident recently reported being contacted by an individual falsely claiming to be from a local law enforcement agency. The scammer informed the resident that they had missed jury duty and that a warrant was issued for their arrest. To avoid arrest, the scammer demanded payment in Bitcoin. This is a variant of the long-standing jury duty scams.

In addition to demands for payment, scammers might attempt to gain personal information from potential victims, which could then be used for identity theft. Another tactic includes sending emails that appear to be “jury summons” but contain malware. Downloading the attachment could infect the individual’s computer, causing further harm.

To protect against such scams, the Better Business Bureau (BBB) offers the following tips:

1. **Be cautious of unsolicited calls or emails.** Always question unexpected communications.

2. **Verify with the Court.** If there is any uncertainty regarding jury duty status, contact the Jury Commissioner’s office at (928) 753-0713 for local service in either Superior or Limited Jurisdiction Courts.

3. **Ignore high-pressure demands for immediate action.** Scammers often create a false sense of urgency to prompt impulsive reactions.

4. **Avoid unusual payment methods.** Be wary of any requests to pay via wire transfer, prepaid debit cards, digital wallets, or cryptocurrency such as Bitcoin or iTunes cards—these are often linked to fraudulent activities.

5. **Seek a second opinion.** If uncertain, discussing the situation with a family member or friend can provide clarity.

Vigilance and awareness are crucial in combating these scams. Protecting personal information and verifying suspicious claims can prevent potential victims from falling prey to these deceptive tactics.

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