ARREST WARRANT SCAM
The classic scam that lives on
“An arrest warrant has been issued in your name”
Classic scams are classic for a reason. They work! Because there’s nothing quite like the fear of an arrest to capture your attention; and your hard-earned dollars. Posing as a bounty hunter, attorney or law enforcement officer, the scammer warns of your impending arrest unless payment is made immediately.
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What you should know
These scammers often use “spoofed” numbers, making it appear that they are calling from your local sheriff’s office or jail. They will tell potential victims they have an outstanding warrant for an unpaid debt or minor infraction and that a fine is due. The scammers will demand immediate payments via Western Union MoneyGram or buying a prepaid credit card (like Green Dot) and registering it online.
A variation of this scam is the claim that the basis of the arrest warrant is non-payment of the underlying loan and/or hacking with the same demand for immediate payment via prepaid credit card.
How YouMail can help stop arrest warrant scams today
YouMail is the leading solution for robocalls and we are proud that our customers are protected from scammers, spammers and other unwanted callers. Best of all, it is a 100% free service available to everyone!
Typical arrest warrant scam voicemail left with YouMail customers
TRANSCRIPTION: There is an arrest warrant against you right now on you and your physical property. You are being monitored and it's very important that I do hear back from you as soon as possible before we proceed further in any legal manner. My direct call back number is 407-519-2647. Again, the number is 407-519-2647. Thank you.
What you should do
First, let’s clarify. If there’s a warrant out for your arrest, police do not call first. If you’re in trouble with the law, you will know it. The police will knock on your door or send a certified letter regarding any legal action against you.
Our best advice
You can avoid all scams; really; just let all unknown callers go right to voicemail. Need to get the specifics on the number? Check out YouMail’s online phone directory to see if that number has negative reports or is from a known scammer.