Minnesota’s Latest Scam Uses Fear and Fake Cops to Steal Your Info

In 2024, over 22,000 cases of fraud were reported in Minnesota, costing people in the state more than $100 million, based on data from the Federal Trade Commission.

The actual number of victims and money lost is likely even higher since many victims don’t report scams because they feel embarrassed or ashamed. Scammers are everywhere these days, so it’s important to stay alert and pay attention to warnings.

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The Stearns County Sheriff’s Department in Minnesota recently put out an alert for a scam that's currently targeting people in the area, trying to trick them into giving up personal and financial information and money.

Minnesotans Warned About Fake Cop Scam

In a Facebook post, they warned about a scam where someone pretends to be a law enforcement officer. The scammer has been calling people and claiming to be Lt. Shawn Widmer from the Stearns County Sheriff’s Office.

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The scammer says you’ve missed jury duty and then tries to pressure you into giving up personal details or making a payment to avoid getting arrested. Do not fall for this!

The Sheriff's Department made it clear they never ask for payments or personal info like your Social Security number or bank details over the phone. If you get a call like this, you should hang up right away and report it to local law enforcement.

FYI - Jury duty notices are always sent by mail, never by phone or email.