WEST VIRGINIA (WCHS) — The U.S. Marshals Service is warning the public of an ongoing scam involving people posing as marshals or other law enforcement in an attempt to get money.
In the incidents, scammers contact people, often by text message or phone call, and falsely claim the person is facing arrest or legal action, according to a news release from the U.S. Marshals Service.
Officials said the scammers frequently present fraudulent legal documents, including fake warrants, subpoenas or court orders to make the scam appear legitimate.
The victims are then instructed to pay money immediately to avoid arrest or other legal consequences.
The U.S. Marshals Service said federal law enforcement officer will not request money or gift cards to resolve legal matters and would never contact someone by phone or text demanding payment.
The agency urged the public to follow these tips to avoid falling victim to a similar scam:
- Do not respond to unsolicited calls or texts claiming to be from law enforcement
- Do not send money or cryptocurrency
- Do not share personal or financial information
- Independently verify any claimed law enforcement contact by calling official numbers listed on government websites
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Anyone who believes they have been contacted by a scammer posing as a U.S. Marshal or other law enforcement official are encouraged to report the incident to their local law enforcement agency and to the Federal Trade Commission.
