The East Pennsboro Township Police Department is warning residents about several scams that are actively targeting individuals in our community. Scammers are using sophisticated tactics to create fear, urgency, and confusion to obtain money or personal information from unsuspecting victims.

Two of the most reported scams in our region are the Jury Duty/Warrant Scam and Cryptocurrency ATM Scam. These scams are particularly effective because criminals often use officers' names, badge numbers, court names, and spoofed government phone numbers to appear legitimate.

By staying informed and sharing this information with family members, friends, and neighbors, our community can help prevent these scams and protect those who may be most vulnerable to becoming victims.

Common Scams Being Reported:

Jury Duty/Warrant Scam

Scammers call or text victims claiming they failed to report for jury duty and now have a warrant for their arrest. They demand immediate payment to avoid arrest. Victims are frequently instructed to pay using cryptocurrency, gift cards, wire transfers, or cash deposits.

Remember: Courts and law enforcement agencies do not collect fines or resolve warrants through these payment methods.

Cryptocurrency ATM Scam

Victims are directed to deposit money into a cryptocurrency ATM after being told they owe taxes, missed jury duty, have an outstanding warrant, have illicit material on their computer, or need to protect funds in their bank account. 

Impersonation of Law Enforcement or Government Agencies

Fraudsters claim to be from a local police department, sheriff's office, the FBI, IRS, Social Security Administration, or another government agency, using spoofed phone numbers to make the call appear legitimate. The threat of arrest, fines, or suspension of benefits is used unless immediate payment is made.

Bank Fraud and Account Protection Scam

Scammers contact victims claiming suspicious activity has been detected on their bank account instructing them to withdraw funds or transfer money to a "safe account," which is controlled by the scammer.

Tech Support Scam

Victims receive pop-up messages, emails, or phone calls claiming their computer has been infected with a virus. The scammer requests remote access to the device and may convince the victim to transfer funds to "secure" their accounts.

Grandparent and Family Emergency Scam

Scammers pretend to be a grandchild, relative, attorney, or law enforcement officer and claim a loved one has been arrested, injured, or involved in an emergency. They demand immediate payment and often instruct victims not to contact other family members.

HOW TO STAY SAFE

• No legitimate government agency will demand payment in cryptocurrency.
• Never use a cryptocurrency ATM based on instructions from someone who contacted you unexpectedly.
• Be cautious of unsolicited phone calls, emails, text messages, and social media messages.
• Never provide personal, banking, or financial information to unsolicited callers.
• Be skeptical of threats, demands for immediate action, or promises of guaranteed financial returns.
• If something does not seem right, independently verify the information before taking action.

Common Scam Phrases

"You owe money and will be arrested unless you pay immediately."

"Your account has been frozen and can only be unlocked by sending cryptocurrency."

"Invest now and receive guaranteed high returns."

"A friend or family member is in trouble and needs money immediately."

Remember

• Law enforcement agencies do not accept payment by cryptocurrency, gift cards, prepaid debit cards, wire transfers, or payment apps to resolve warrants, fines, or criminal matters.
• Courts do not call individuals demanding immediate payment for missed jury duty.
• Government agencies do not threaten immediate arrest over the telephone.
• If you receive a suspicious call, hang up and contact the agency directly using a publicly listed phone number.

If You Believe You Are Being Targeted

• Stop all communication with the suspected scammer immediately.
• Do not send money or provide personal information.
• Contact the East Pennsboro Township Police Department at (717)732-3633 to report the incident or seek guidance.

Please share this information with family, friends, and neighbors. Awareness remains one of the most effective tools in preventing fraud.