Don’t Fall for the Fake Court Summons Scam

Have you received a voicemail or call like this?

“Attention. Attention [Your Name], this call is regarding internal case number 24021546. This is Amy Cooper with civil service dispatch.

We are making a final attempt to serve a court summons to the property address attached to this phone record. The documents require a signature for proper service and delivery—someone over the age of 18 must be present.

Contact issuing agent legal department for further information at 844-699-1374. Again, 844-699-1374. Failure to communicate with the legal department will result in penalties and fines under Title 18, Section 150, willful evasion of service.”

This information is based on reports from individuals who may have experienced or encountered potential scams. Scammers often use or imitate legitimate phone numbers from businesses and government agencies to deceive people. Always verify the legitimacy of any communication before taking action.

This sounds pretty serious, right? It’s designed to. Scammers know that if they can create enough panic, you might call back without thinking. But let’s break this down so you can see the red flags and avoid falling for this scam.

The Anatomy of the Court Summons Scam

1. Attention-Grabbing Start: The scammer starts by addressing you by name and throwing in official-sounding phrases like “internal case number” or “civil service dispatch.” This makes the call feel urgent and legitimate, which is exactly what they want.

2. Court Summons Threat: A court summons is no small thing, and scammers rely on the fact that most people will panic if they hear they’re being summoned. They mention you need to sign documents, adding the pressure of a specific action—getting someone over 18 to be present—making it sound like this is a final, urgent step in a legal process.

3. Fake Legal References: They refer to “Title 18, Section 150” to make it sound like you’re in deep legal trouble. The mention of “willful evasion of service” plays on fear, making you think that by ignoring this call, you’re committing a serious crime.

4. Call to Action: Scammers always include a way to contact them—usually a fake legal department number. They want you to call, thinking you’ll be able to resolve things quickly, but what you’re really doing is walking into their trap.

What Happens If You Call?

If you call the number, you’ll be connected with someone posing as a “legal representative.” They might claim you owe a fine or have pending legal action against you. Here’s where things get dangerous—they’ll tell you the easiest way to avoid trouble is by paying the fines immediately over the phone, usually through a prepaid card or wire transfer.

And once you hand over your money, it’s gone. These scammers are highly skilled at convincing you that you’re on the verge of serious legal consequences, so you pay up fast before realizing it’s a scam.

How to Spot the Red Flags

Let’s break down the key signs that this call is a scam:

• Unknown Case Number: No legitimate legal process begins with a vague “internal case number.” Courts will always send official notices through the mail or in person by a process server.

• “Final Attempt” Language: Scammers frequently use phrases like “final attempt” to create a sense of urgency. Real legal documents are not delivered via a threatening phone call.

• Urgent Contact Information: Official court summons are never resolved by calling a random 1-800 number. Legal issues require formal proceedings.

• Threats of Penalties or Fines: Scammers use fear tactics like fines or criminal penalties to get you to react without thinking. Legitimate legal issues won’t be resolved through a panicked phone call demanding immediate payment.

What Should You Do?

If you get a call like this, don’t engage. Here’s what you can do:

1. Hang Up: Don’t give them the satisfaction. Once they have you on the line, they’ll pressure you further.

2. Do Not Call the Number Back: Calling the number opens the door for more manipulation. Avoid any interaction.

3. Verify with Official Sources: If you are concerned about possible legal action, contact your local court directly to ask if there is any legitimate issue. Don’t use the number provided in the voicemail.

4. Report the Call: Let others know about the scam by reporting it to your local authorities and filing a report with the FTC at reportfraud.ftc.gov.

Stay Safe and Don’t Let Fear Control You

Scammers are banking on your fear and urgency to make their schemes work. Always slow down, evaluate the situation, and think critically before taking any action.

Got any questions or have a scam you want us to break down? Drop us a line—our team is always ready to help. Stay safe out there!