HILO, Hawaii (KHON2) — If you get a phone call from the Hilo Courthouse, chances are it’s not from an actual government official.
The Hawaii State Judiciary warned the public about scammers spoofing Hilo Courthouse phone numbers in an attempt to extort money from residents.
State officials said courts or law enforcement “would not call or email you unless you contacted us first seeking assistance with a specific question.”
According to officials, Hawaii state court staff do not call for any of the following reasons:
- Provide personal information such as name, birth date, Social Security number or financial information
- Immediate payment of a pre-paid card or sending money to the government using online payment apps or through a wire transfer
- Credit card numbers or bank routing numbers
- Organizing a meet-up to make a payment
If you find yourself on the phone with a scammer, hang up the phone immediately and do not respond to questions or press any buttons you’re asked to press.
If you get an email or text message from the Hawaii State Judiciary without reaching out first, delete the message immediately.
Never respond to the email or phone number given if you suspect a scam. Instead, use the contact information on the agency’s official website.
Call 911 if you are in anger or if you are threatened by a scammer.