What Is the Digital Arrest Scam?

Scammers are impersonating law enforcement officers and demanding payment under false threats of arrest. They may spoof real phone numbers from local police departments or federal agencies, making the call look official. They aim to scare victims into sending money quickly, often through credit cards, wire transfers, or payment apps.

How the Scam Works

You may receive a call or message from someone claiming to be with the police, FBI, or even your local sheriff’s office. They say you’ve missed jury duty, committed a crime, or are under investigation. To avoid arrest, they demand payment right away. The scammer may sound convincing and use real names, case numbers, or other details to make the story more believable. But it’s all fake.

Example of the Scam

Jason received a phone call from someone claiming to be a U.S. Marshal. The caller said a warrant was out for Jason’s arrest because he failed to appear in court. To avoid being “taken into custody,” Jason was told to pay a fine using prepaid gift cards. The caller stayed on the phone, coaching Jason through purchasing and reading card numbers. Only later did Jason realize he had been scammed.

Tips to Protect Yourself From the Digital Arrest Scam

• Know the red flags. Law enforcement will not call you to demand payment or threaten arrest.
• Don’t trust caller ID. Scammers can fake (or “spoof”) official phone numbers.
• Talk to someone you trust. Scammers use fear to isolate you. Talking to friends, family members, or us can help stop the scam.
• Hang up and verify. If you’re unsure, hang up and call the real agency using a verified number.
• Avoid rushed payments. Requests for payment via gift cards, wire transfers, or cryptocurrency are strong signs of fraud.

If You’ve Been Scammed

If you’ve been targeted by a fake arrest call, follow these essential tips:

• Contact us and any other financial institutions you work with. If your account information has been compromised, or if you have mistakenly given money to a scam, let us know.
• Report the scam to the FTC. File a report with the Federal Trade Commission at ReportFraud.FTC.gov. Also, inform your local law enforcement.
• Report the scam to the state attorney general. You can find information at NAAG.org.
• Don’t feel embarrassed. These scams are designed to pressure and trick you. What matters is taking quick action to limit the damage.