ROCKINGHAM — The Rockingham Police Department is warning Richmond County residents about a new phone scam in which callers pose as law enforcement or federal court officials to demand payment.
“These scammers attempt to collect financial compensation in lieu of arrest due to a claim of failing to report for jury duty or other court-related matters. Victims are told they can avoid arrest by providing financial payment over the phone,” read a release from the department on Monday.
The department noted scammers often sound convincing and may use the names of real law enforcement officers to appear legitimate.
“Please be advised that the Rockingham Police Department will NEVER contact residents via phone for their failure to appear for jury service. Additionally, the Rockingham Police Department will NEVER ask for credit/debit cards, gift card numbers, wire transfers, or bank routing numbers,” they said.
Police urge residents not to share personal or financial information over the phone. Those who receive suspicious calls can verify their legitimacy by contacting the department at 910-895-2468.
Law enforcement agencies have been confronting similar scams since earlier this year, including a June incident in which the North Carolina Division of Motor Vehicles warned of fraudulent text messages claiming recipients owed unpaid traffic fines or fees, and threatening penalties such as license suspension or vehicle registration revocation.