Troubleshooters: Local authorities warn of 2 scams targeting residents

PHILADELPHIA (WPVI) -- Authorities are warning residents about two scams circulating in the region - one involving fake jury duty threats and another impersonating the city's Department of Revenue with promises of a refund.

The Troubleshooters actually received the text message claiming to be from the Philadelphia Department of Revenue.

The message read, "Your refund request has been processed and approved. Please provide accurate payment information by September 18, 2025" and included a link to submit bank details.

The text looks pretty official but beware, this is just a con to get your sensitive information.

The city confirmed it does not request sensitive financial information via text message. Officials advise residents who receive such messages to avoid clicking on any links, delete the text, block the sender, and report the scam.

The second scam targets individuals summoned for jury duty. Patrick Martin, Jury Commissioner for Philadelphia's First Judicial District, said scammers are contacting citizens and falsely claiming they missed jury duty.

"They tell you that you missed jury duty. And then they tell you that it can be taken care of one or two ways," Martin said. "Unfortunately we've had one or two that have fallen for it."

Victims are told they must either face arrest or pay to resolve the issue. One Philadelphia resident reportedly sent $5,000 to a scammer.

Martin emphasized that the court does not operate in this manner.

"We would never threaten you, we would never call you up and tell you that there is a warrant out for your arrest. That's just not the process that we follow here," he said.

Those who miss jury duty will receive a reminder to reschedule.

"You're still gonna have to do your jury service, but we'll make sure that we make it as painless as possible for you," Martin added.

Camden County has also issued alerts about similar schemes targeting residents.

Officials urge anyone who receives suspicious calls or messages to contact local authorities.