31/05/2024
🚨 SCAM ALERT 🚨
Dear Sangamon County residents, we have become aware of another recent phone scam affecting our community. A resident reported losing $9,800 due to this scam. The scammer has been reported to be calling from the following numbers: 217-753-6886, 217-279-6010, and 217-952-4402. Please be advised that these numbers are linked to fraudulent activity.
The scam involves a caller identifying as Sgt. Smith from Sangamon County law enforcement. The caller misleads the victim into believing they've missed a court date as a juror or witness for a federal case and threatens charges for failure to appear and contempt of court. The "remedy" offered is either a 72-hour detention or a fine totaling $10,000, payable via Bitcoin.
Please be aware that this is a SCAM. Our office would like to emphasize the jury selection process is conducted through mail and online via eJuror for federal cases and iJuror for local cases. You can find all relevant information as well as contact details in case you've been contacted about fines or have any questions about the jury selection process at https://ijuror.co.sangamon.il.us/main.asp?id=index and https://www.ilcd.uscourts.gov/jury-information.
Protect yourself and your loved ones:
1. Be Skeptical: Law enforcement agencies will never call to demand payment over the phone, especially not in Bitcoin.
2. Don't Share Personal Information: Never disclose personal or financial information over the phone, especially if the identity of the caller cannot be verified.
3. Hang Up: If you receive such a call, hang up immediately and report the incident to your local law enforcement agency.
4. Block Suspicious Numbers: If you repeatedly receive calls from the same suspicious numbers, consider blocking them.
Stay vigilant and help us spread the word by sharing this post.