SCAM LIBRARY · THREATS & BLACKMAIL
The 'warrant for your arrest' call
A caller claiming to represent law enforcement threatens you with arrest unless you pay money immediately—but real courts never demand instant payment over the phone.
Documented by the FTC & FBI IC3 · reviewed 2026-07-07
How it works
You receive a call from someone impersonating a police officer, judge, or court official who says you have an outstanding warrant or unpaid fine. They create urgent pressure by threatening arrest, jail time, or seizure of property if you don't pay right away—usually demanding payment by gift card, wire transfer, or cryptocurrency so the transaction can't be reversed.
What it can look like
You get a call saying you missed jury duty or owe back taxes, and the caller claims officers will arrest you within hours unless you pay a 'fine' immediately. They may even spoof a local police department's phone number to make the call look official.
Red flags
- Caller demands immediate payment to avoid arrest—legitimate courts send official mail and give you time to respond.
- They insist you pay by gift card, wire transfer, or cryptocurrency—real government agencies accept checks and official payment methods.
- Caller refuses to let you hang up, verify their identity, or speak to a real office.
- They threaten to have you arrested 'within the hour' unless you comply.
- They claim you can't tell family, friends, or your lawyer about the call.
What to do
- Hang up immediately. If you're unsure, call your local police department directly using a number you find yourself (not one the caller provides).
- Remember: law enforcement agencies contact people by mail, not surprise phone calls demanding instant payment.
- Report the call to the FTC at reportfraud.ftc.gov so authorities can track these scams.