Phone scammer claims to be from the Humboldt County Sheriff’s Office

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Eureka, Ca., (KIEM)- A Humboldt County resident receives a phone call from someone who says they’re with the sheriff’s office. They say a fine is owed for missed jury duty. The caller goes on to say, if the fine isn’t paid, a warrant will be issued for their arrest. This phone call was a scam, according to the Humboldt County Sheriff’s Office.

The victim immediately reported the suspicious call to the department and did not give away any personal information. When a deputy called the scammer, they then claimed they were calling from the Sonoma County Sheriff’s Office.

The sheriff’s office will never contact citizens about a missed jury date. The federal court will always send out that information and issue jury summons by U.S. mail only. They will never demand payment or sensitive information over the phone.

Another good tip for verifying a caller’s identity? Hang up, and call back at an agency line. If you receive a call from someone claiming to work for HCSO, you can ask to call back at  (707) 445-7251.