BOISE, ID — Raúl R. Labrador is joining with state and local officials to warn Idaho residents about a surge in jury duty scams targeting families across the state.

In a press release issued Feb. 12, the Idaho Attorney General’s Office said it is partnering with the Idaho Judicial Branch, the Idaho Sheriffs’ Association, and the Idaho Prosecuting Attorneys Association to raise awareness about the scam.

According to the release, scammers are contacting Idahoans claiming they missed jury duty and must immediately pay a fine to avoid arrest or additional penalties. Victims are often directed to make payments through links, QR codes, or, in some cases, cryptocurrency ATMs.

“Sheriff’s offices, prosecutors, and courts across Idaho are getting hammered with reports from families who’ve been targeted by these fake court scams,” Labrador said in the release. He added that the coalition aims to “cut through the confusion” and help families protect themselves.

State officials emphasized that Idaho courts do not send jury summonses, arrest warrants, or requests for court fees electronically. While some counties may send basic jury service reminders by text or email if a juror has opted in, those messages will not include payment requests, links, or instructions to provide personal information, the release states.

Scammers may spoof caller IDs and use official logos or the names of local judges, sheriffs, or court staff to appear legitimate. Officials said government agencies will never demand payment over the phone or request gift cards or cryptocurrency as payment.

Residents who receive suspicious jury-related messages are advised not to send money, click links, open attachments, or reply to the sender. Anyone unsure about the legitimacy of a message should contact their county jury commissioner using publicly listed contact information rather than information provided in the message.

Officials also encouraged victims of scams to report incidents to local law enforcement or through the state’s online reporting system at ReportScamsIdaho.com.

The coalition said increasing public awareness is key to preventing further losses as these scams continue to circulate statewide.