The U.S. Marshals Service and the FBI are alerting the public of several nationwide scams by callers claiming to be U.S. Marshals, court officers, or other law enforcement officials, including U.S. Marshal David Gonzales in Arizona.
The calls in the Phoenix area come from phone number (602) 888-2556. Scammers try to collect a fine in lieu of arrest for alleged failure to report for jury duty, or some other “legal matter.” Victims are told they can avoid arrest by buying a prepaid debit card or gift card and providing the number to pay the fine.
The U.S. Marshals Service says members of the public should not divulge personal or financial information to unknown callers. They can report such calls to the U.S. Marshals Service Office in Phoenix at (602) 382-8768.
5 things the U.S. Marshals Service wants you to remember
1. The U.S. Marshals will never ask for your card information, including credit, debit or gift card. Nor will they ask for wire transfers or bank routing numbers for any reason.
2. Never give financial or personal information to callers that are unknown.
3. It is important to report scam phone calls to the Federal Trade Commission and your local U.S. Marshals Service district office.
4. When a report is made, you may remain anonymous.
5. To authenticate a call you can call the clerk of the court's office of the U.S. District Court in your area and verify the court number given by the caller.