FORT KNOX, KY. (CLARKSVILLENOW) – Yesterday, January 7, U.S. Army Recruiting Command issued a statement concerning reports of fake draft notices via text message.

This new scam has arisen in the week following the death of Iranian Maj. Gen. Qasem Soleimani, who was killed in Baghdad during a U.S drone strike, an event which has prompted threats of retaliation from the Iranian government.

Shortly after reports of Soleimani’s death, the Selective Service System’s website crashed. According to the Selective Service’s Twitter, this was the result of high traffic brought on by what they called “the spread of misinformation.”

The statement, issued through the command’s website, reads, “A number of fraudulent text messages informing individuals they have been selected for a military draft have circulated throughout the country this week. U.S. Army Command has received multiple calls and emails about these fake text messages and wants to ensure Americans understand these texts are false and were not initiated by this command or the U.S. Army.”

According to a report in Military.com, approximately 9,000 U.S service members  have been ordered to the Middle East in an attempt to reinforce U.S presence there; however, no draft notice has been issued.

In fact, the U.S. military is not responsible for enacting a draft. In order for a draft to occur, an act of Congress is required along with the president’s signature. A draft has not occurred in 46 years.

Currently in the U.S., males between the ages of 18-25 must register for the Selective Service.

Should anyone receive a text message concerning an alleged draft, do not be alarmed. U.S Army Recruiting Command invites those with questions to contact their Army recruiting office.