Understanding the Arrest Warrant Scam
Residents of Montgomery County are being targeted by a new email scam involving cryptocurrency. An email informs the recipient of an alleged arrest warrant for failing to appear in court and demands payment to cancel the warrant. The payment is to be made through a digital escrow account using a Coinstar Bitcoin terminal.
Recognizing Fake Documents
Scammers attempt to appear legitimate by attaching documents that seem to be from reputable institutions like the U.S. District Court Eastern District of Pennsylvania, the FDIC, and the U.S. Supreme Court. These documents might look official but are not authentic.
Statements from Authorities
District Attorney Kevin Steele has emphasized that monetary transactions are never involved when resolving a legitimate arrest warrant. Such issues are to be addressed before a Common Pleas judge. Furthermore, Bitcoin or any other cryptocurrency is not accepted by the criminal justice system in Montgomery County.
How to Protect Yourself
- Verify the Source: Always double-check the sender's email address and contact local authorities directly if you receive such an email.
- Do Not Make Payments: Avoid making payments through unfamiliar methods like Bitcoin terminals for legal matters.
- Report Suspicious Activity: If you believe you have been targeted by this scam, report it to the local police and district attorney's office immediately.
By understanding and identifying these scam tactics, you can better protect your digital assets and prevent falling victim to these deceptive schemes.
