WASHINGTON — Police are warning about a telephone scam that has popped up in parts of the area, most recently in Prince William County. It’s a scam that relies on fear and, like many scams, on gullibility. 

Scammers are calling people, telling them that they failed to appear for grand jury duty and they are now subject to arrest. Generally in scams like this, the person is told that they can avert the arrest by paying a fine using a prepaid money card. 

The scam surfaced last year in Prince George’s County.

Prince William County police say that anyone targeted by the scam should call police at 703-792-6500. People should not provide any personal information, especially bank account information.

Police have the matter under investigation and warn that it is a crime for anyone to falsely represent themselves as a court official.