Montana, Watch Out for This New Jury Duty Scam

The Missoula County Sheriff's Office is warning of a new scam.

Did You Get a Notice of Jury Service Recently?

Recently, an annual notice was sent out notifying people of the new jury term. The current term began September 1, 2023, and will end August 31, 2024. You may have received a postcard in the mail that looks something like this:

If you visit the link at the bottom of the card, it explains how jury selection works. In particular, it notes that if you are selected for jury duty you will receive a summons packet in the mail. When you receive it, that's when you're supposed to appear for jury selection.

Related: Nefarious Scammers Making Their Rounds. Be on the Lookout For These Two Men. 

How the Scam Works

This latest scam tries to convince you that you missed appearing for jury selection. The Missoula County Sheriff's Office provides the specific details via social media:

Scammers are calling and identifying themselves as Erick Gilbertson, Anthony Rio, or Allen Kimmery. They are calling from a number that shows as 406-505-9720 or 406-258-4810. The tactic is to scare you into paying them by claiming you have a warrant for missing Jury Duty. You are required to pay right now, and, they have conveniently set up a website for you to give them your hard earned $$$. - Facebook

They strongly encourage you to hang up. Part of the complication is that the number the scammers identify as the customer service number is the customer service number--but they aren't calling from that number. The MCSO says in all caps, "CALL US AND VERIFY BEFORE YOU EVEN CONSIDER PAYING!!!!" You can read the full warning at this link.

What You Can Do to Protect Yourself

There are many resources to help keep you and your information safe.

• 13 Ways to Protect Yourself From Fraud - AARP
• How to Avoid a Scam - Federal Trade Commission Consumer Advice
• How to Recognize and Avoid Phishing Scams - Federal Trade Commission Consumer Advice