New jury duty scam hits Bryan County

BRYAN COUNTY, Ga. (WTOC) - There’s a new jury duty scam spreading across our area, according to the Bryan County Clerk of Courts.

In a social media post, the Bryan County Clerk of Courts says that this new jury duty scam is spreading across social media and through phone calls or text messages.

Officials say these scammers pretend to be court officials, sheriffs, or jury coordinators.

The scammers claim you have “missed jury duty and now owe a fine or could be arrested unless you pay immediately or provide personal information.”

Here’s how the Bryan County Clerk of Courts says the scam works, and what to do if you are contacted:

How the Jury Duty Scam works

• You might get a DM, phone call, or text saying you failed to report for jury duty.
• The scammer may use real names of judges or law enforcement to sound convincing.
• They’ll demand you pay a “fine” via gift card, Venmo, Cash App, Zelle, or wire transfer.
• Sometimes, they ask for Social Security numbers or bank info to “verify your identity.”

What’s important to know about the Jury Duty Scam

• Courts will NEVER contact you by social media, text, or phone to demand payment.
• No one can be arrested for missing jury duty without official written notice.
• Payments are never collected over the phone or through apps.

What you should do if someone tries the Jury Duty Scam on you

• Hang up or ignore the message — don’t click any links or send money.
• Report the scam to your local courthouse or sheriff’s department.
• Tell friends and family, especially older relatives, who may be more vulnerable.
• Check official jury duty status by visiting your county or state court’s verified website.