'This scam, like most, plays on fear. It puts the victim on the defensive, forcing them to react without necessarily thinking the situation through," said Cordray. "The best rule of thumb is to never give out your personal information over the phone regardless of who is calling. Unless you initiate the call, you really don't have verification of who is on the other end."
The Supreme Court of Ohio advises Ohioans that officers of the court do not request personal information over the phone.
"Jury management is something that is administered by local courts, and citizens with questions about jury service should contact their local court directly," said Steven C. Hollon, administrative director of the Supreme Court of Ohio. The scam was heavily reported several years ago when a wave of calls were received in numerous states including Ohio. The Attorney General's office was notified this week that the ploy is again making its rounds.
Cordray also urges Ohioans who have become victims of this scam or any other phishing scam to immediately report the incident to local police and contact his office at www.SpeakOutOhio.gov or by calling (800) 282-0515.