At Accurate Serve of southern Florida, serving Miami, Key West, and Plantation, we understand the importance of hiring a reputable and reliable process server. Unfortunately, there are many fake process servers out there that are running scams to defraud unsuspecting clients. In this blog post, we will discuss some of the most common scams used by fake process servers and offer tips on how to protect yourself.
Scam #1: No Verifiable Reputation + Upfront Payment
One of the most common scams used by fake process servers is posing as a process server with no verifiable reputation that asks for payment upfront. If the process server has no website, social media, Google listing, etc. where you can verify their reputation via online reviews, plus they ask for payment upfront, beware. This is a classic setup to scam you out of some cash.
Scam #2: Fake Process Servers Claiming to be Government Officials
Another common scam used by fake process servers is pretending to be government officials. They will often use fake badges or official-looking documents to make themselves appear legitimate. They will tell you that you are in legal trouble and that you need to pay a fine or a fee to avoid further legal action. Remember that legitimate process servers do not have the authority to issue fines or collect fees on behalf of the government.
Scam #3: Fake Process Servers Using Intimidation Tactics
Some fake process servers use intimidation tactics to scare their victims into paying them. They may threaten legal action or even physical harm if you do not pay them. Remember that legitimate process servers do not use intimidation tactics to get their job done. If you feel threatened or intimidated by a process server, do not hesitate to contact the authorities.
How to Protect Yourself
So, how can you protect yourself from fake process servers? Here are some tips:
Do Your Research:
Before hiring a process server, do your research. Check their website and online reviews to see what other clients have to say about them. Make sure they have a physical office location and a valid business license.
Ask for Credentials:
Legitimate process servers will have credentials and identification that proves their identity. Here in Florida, this can be an approval from the local sheriff or certification from the presiding judicial circuit, depending on the county. Do not work with any process server that cannot provide the appropriate credentials.
Ask for References:
Ask the process server for references from past clients. Reach out to these references to see what they have to say about their experience working with the process server.
Check for Insurance/Bonds:
Make sure the process server has insurance and surety bonds in place in case anything goes wrong during the process of serving the documents.
Trust Your Gut:
If something seems off about the process server, trust your instincts. Do not work with anyone who makes you feel uncomfortable or who seems shady.
100% Legit Process Servers in Plantation, Miami, & Key West
Fake process servers are a real threat to individuals and businesses who need to serve legal documents to recover damages or losses. By doing your research and following the tips we have provided, you can protect yourself from these scams. Remember, a legitimate process server will have verifiable references, never pretend to be a government official, and never use intimidation tactics. If you are ever in doubt, do not hesitate to contact the authorities to report a scam process server. For the best process servers in southern Florida, look no further than the team at Accurate Serve. Just give us a call at 954-299-1552 or send us a work request online to get started today.
