U.S. Marshals Service warning public of scam; states scams are on the rise

The U.S. Marshals Service is warning the public of a telephone scam involving a fraudulent caller contacting individuals, threatening arrest and demanding payment of fines.

Recently, there were reported attempts of a fraudulent caller who identified himself as a Deputy United States Marshal. This phony law enforcement officer informed the potential victims that arrest warrants were being issued for them or their family member due to failure of appearance in court. The potential victims were then informed they could avoid arrest by paying a fine through electronic fund transfer or cashier’s check. The Marshals Service became aware of the scam after receiving several calls from concerned citizens.

“The U.S. Marshals Service is a federal law enforcement agency and does not seek payment of fines or fees via the telephone for individuals with outstanding arrest warrants,” said U.S. Marshal Susan Pamerleau. “Citizens should not divulge personal or financial information to unknown callers.”

If you believe you are a victim of fraud, report the incident through the FBI’s Internet Crime Complaint Center at www.ic3.gov. Also, you should report online, business or phone scams to the Federal Trade Commission (FTC) immediately at www.reportfraud.ftc.gov.