Phone Scam Targets Domestic Violence Survivors

Warning: Scammers are targeting domestic violence survivors and the people who help them. 

Last Thursday, the Attorney General of North Carolina issued a warning about scammers impersonating law enforcement or court officials who often contact survivors shortly after an arrest, court hearing or court date. The scammers use details from the survivor’s investigative or court records to make the scam seem more legitimate. 

Alliance for HOPE International has also received word that these scams are targeting people outside North Carolina. 

Scammers may falsely claim that survivors need to pay money to:

• Post bond for an alleged abuser
• Prevent charges from being dismissed
• Process a protective order
• Pay for electronic monitoring or prevent an offender's release

Some scammers have even discouraged survivors from seeking assistance at victims’ services locations such as Family Justice Centers (FJCs), falsely claiming that these locations' free services cost money. They do not.

Survivors of domestic violence are often victims of physical, emotional and financial abuse, and as such, may feel pressured into making choices that do not benefit themselves from someone they perceive to be in a position of power. 

It is helpful to remember that: 

• Law enforcement, courts and prosecutors will never call demanding payment.
• Protective orders and FJC and victim advocacy services are free.
• If a call seems suspicious, hang up and contact the court, law enforcement agency or FJC directly using a trusted phone number.

City of Sylva Assistant Chief of Police Robbie Carter says, “Scammers often try to create panic and pressure victims into making quick decisions. We want to remind victims that legitimate law enforcement agencies will never ask them to send money for a protective order or electronic monitoring. If you receive a suspicious call, end the conversation and reach out directly to your local law enforcement agency, domestic violence advocacy center or Family Justice Center. Free help and support are available to victims of domestic violence.” 

If you are contacted by someone you think is a scammer, the North Carolina Attorney General’s Office recommends:

• Hang up and call for help. Scammers will try to create a sense of urgency and isolate the victim. Call a crisis hotline or talk to a victim advocate to discuss safety planning.
• Do not provide payment. No legitimate law enforcement agency will call you to demand money to dismiss charges or to pay for a protective order, and they will never threaten you if you do not pay. Any call like that is a scam.
• Remember that filing protective orders and using victim services are free. If someone trying to get money from you tells you otherwise, it’s a scam.

If you need help, use our Get Help tool or Hope Chat at the bottom of your screen to learn more about domestic violence and services available–for free–in your area.