Don’t Fall for the Process Server Scam

Have you ever received a voicemail like this?

“Your case number is 24021546. This is Mark Adams with process servers verification, and we’re making our final attempt to serve court summons to the property address attached to this record.

The documents require a signature for proper service and delivery; someone over the age of 18 must be present and available. Contact our agents in the legal department for further information at 888-495-3404.

Continue to communicate with the office to avoid results and penalties under Title 18, Section 1541, unlawful evasion of service. You’ve been notified.”

Sounds pretty serious, right? But here’s the thing: it’s a scam. Scammers are increasingly using this method to intimidate and trick people into giving away personal information or money. Let’s dissect why this message is a red flag and how you can protect yourself.

1. Urgency and Threats

Scammers love using urgency to create a sense of panic. They know that if they can make you anxious, you’re more likely to act without thinking. The mention of a “final attempt” and potential fines is designed to push you into immediate action. Real legal notifications rarely operate this way. Courts follow a due process and provide ample written notice before taking any drastic actions.

2. Generic Information

Notice how the message contains very little specific information about you or your alleged case. It’s generic enough to apply to anyone. Real legal notifications are detailed and include specific information about the case, your role in it, and usually some sort of written documentation sent through official channels, not just a phone call.

3. Contacting Their Number

One of the biggest red flags is the insistence that you call a specific number for more information. This is a classic scam tactic. Once you call, they might ask for personal information, claim you need to pay a fee to avoid further legal action, or even phish for sensitive details. Never call back a number provided in such a voicemail without independently verifying its authenticity.

4. Legal Jargon as Intimidation

The scam message might mention something like “Title 18 section 1 5,” which sounds intimidating but is often misquoted or irrelevant. This tactic is used to lend an air of legitimacy to the scam. Real legal documents will cite specific, relevant laws and provide clear context about why you are being contacted.

How to Protect Yourself

1. Don’t Panic: Take a moment to breathe and think. Scammers rely on making you panic.
2. Verify Independently: If you are genuinely concerned, look up the contact information for your local courthouse or the organization mentioned and reach out to them directly.
3. Do Not Provide Personal Information: Never give out personal or financial information over the phone to unsolicited callers.
4. Report the Scam: Contact your local authorities or report the scam to the Federal Trade Commission (FTC). Your report can help prevent others from being scammed.

Don’t let intimidation tactics push you into making hasty decisions. Always verify, stay calm, and protect your personal information. Remember, knowledge and caution are your best defenses against scams.