Called about jury duty? Don't fall for this scam

The King County Sheriff’s Office is warning residents they may be part of nationwide scam in the Seattle area -- again.

KIRO 7's consumer reporter Jesse Jones covered on the scam in 2015. It's known as the jury duty scam and the criminals use scare tactics to lock up your pocketbook.

The caller identifies themselves as a King County deputy or detective and explains that the person failed to show up for jury duty.

They then request a credit card number over the phone or ask to purchase a gift card. If you are hesitant of giving any information, they will threaten people with jail for not cooperating to pay.

The sheriff’s office would never call you about a warrant and ask you to pay over the phone. The scammers are convincing, but do not fall for it and hang up the phone.

If you've fallen victim, file a police report and contact the Federal Trade Commission and Federal Communications Commission.

Cox Media Group