HONOLULU — The Honolulu Police Department (HPD) is warning the public to be on alert for jury duty scams targeting Oʻahu residents.  

Scammers are exploiting the judicial process by impersonating law enforcement officers or court officials via fraudulent calls, texts and emails. They falsely claim that victims missed mandatory jury duty and face an active arrest warrant, demanding immediate payment of a fine or bail bond to avoid imprisonment.  

These highly convincing scams pose a severe threat because perpetrators frequently use the names and physical addresses of real law enforcement officials, agencies and courthouses. The public is reminded that official jury duty notices are sent strictly by mail. Government agencies will never ask for payment or personal information over the phone or at unauthorized kiosks. 

How to protect yourself from scams: 

• If you receive a suspicious phone call claiming you missed jury duty and owe money, hang up immediately.  

• Delete suspicious emails or text messages claiming to be from the police or the courts. Avoid clicking on links, opening attachments or replying to the message. 

• Don’t rely on caller ID. Scammers use technology to “spoof” official department phone numbers.  

If you have already given out personal information or lost money to one of these scams, please file a report immediately with the Honolulu Police Department at 808-529-3111 or online at https://www.frontlinepss.com/honolulupolice.