The legal system relies on trust and precision. But fake process servers can undermine that integrity.
From scammers pretending to serve papers to fraudulent companies operating outside the law, knowing how to spot and stop a process server scam is critical.
If you suspect you're dealing with a fraudulent process server, take action immediately—because your legal rights (or even your case) could be at risk.
Step 1: Identify the Red Flags of a Process Server Scam
Scammers use deceptive tactics to trick individuals into paying fees or revealing sensitive information.
Scam Signs to Watch For
- No Credentials or Business Registration – A legitimate process server will be registered or licensed (if required). If they refuse to provide credentials, that's a red flag.
- Threats & Intimidation – A real process server does not threaten arrest, fines, or legal action. If someone is demanding immediate payment or trying to scare you, it’s a scam.
- Payment Demands for Unverified Cases – A process server’s job is to serve papers, not collect debts or fines. If they say you must pay to avoid legal trouble, it’s a scam.
- No Official Documentation – A real process server provides an Affidavit of Service after delivering documents. If they refuse to provide paperwork, they may be lying about the serve.
- Untraceable Contact Info – Legitimate process servers have a business address, website, and verifiable phone number. Scammers often use burner phones, P.O. boxes, or have no online presence.
If any of these apply, proceed with caution.
Step 2: Verify Their Identity & Credentials
Before assuming the worst, take steps to confirm whether the process server is legitimate.
How to Verify
- Check Your State’s Registry – Some states require process servers to be licensed. Contact your state or county clerk’s office to confirm.
- Look for Online Reviews & Business Records – Search the process server’s name, company, or phone number on Google, LinkedIn, or legal directories.
- Call the Court Directly – If you’ve received a lawsuit notice, contact the court where the case was filed to confirm its legitimacy.
- Ask for an Affidavit of Service – A real process server will issue a signed, sworn statement verifying the serve. If they can’t provide paperwork, something’s off.
If they fail these verification steps, it’s time to take action.
Step 3: Protect Yourself from Further Fraud
Once you suspect fraud, your next priority is protecting yourself.
What NOT to Do
- Do NOT give them money – Real process servers don’t collect payments for fines or legal fees.
- Do NOT provide personal information – Scammers may try to collect Social Security numbers, bank info, or sensitive legal details. Never share.
- Do NOT agree to meet in a private location – A real process server delivers papers professionally—not in a secluded area or dark alley.
Stay cautious and keep communication documented.
Step 4: Report the Fraud & Take Action
If you confirm that the process server is fake, report them immediately to help prevent others from falling victim.
Who to Notify
- Local Law Enforcement – File a police report if the scam involves threats, extortion, or impersonation.
- The Court or State Licensing Board – If the scammer claims to represent a court case, inform the clerk of court or state licensing authority.
- Process Serving Associations – Groups like NAPPS (National Association of Professional Process Servers) track fraud and misconduct.
- Online Review Platforms – If the scammer is using a fake business name or phone number, post warnings on Google, Yelp, or the Better Business Bureau (BBB).
Stopping one scammer can prevent countless victims.
Step 5: Work with a Verified Process Server
To avoid scams in the future, hire only verified process servers with a proven track record.
How to Find a Legitimate Process Server
- Check for Licensing & Professional Memberships – Look for servers who are members of NAPPS or state-specific process serving associations.
- Use Established Legal Networks – Attorneys and law firms work with reliable process servers—ask for referrals.
- Get Everything in Writing – Request service agreements, receipts, and tracking information to ensure accountability.
If they can’t prove legitimacy, don’t hire them.
Step 5: Work with a Verified Process Server
To avoid scams in the future, hire only verified process servers with a proven track record.
How to Find a Legitimate Process Server
- Check for Licensing & Professional Memberships – Look for servers who are members of NAPPS or state-specific process serving associations.
- Use Established Legal Networks – Attorneys and law firms work with reliable process servers—ask for referrals.
- Get Everything in Writing – Request service agreements, receipts, and tracking information to ensure accountability.
If they can’t prove legitimacy, don’t hire them.
Final Takeaway: Stay Vigilant, Stay Safe
Process server scams undermine the legal system, but they only succeed when people fail to verify the truth.
If someone claiming to be a process server is acting suspiciously:
- Trust your instincts
- Verify their identity
- Report fraud immediately
Because when it comes to justice, paperwork, and your rights—precision and integrity matter.
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We're here to assist you with any legal support services you may require. Although our main office is located in Phoenix, we have dedicated local teams to handle all location-specific tasks efficiently. Here's how you can get in touch with us.
The Process Server
13416 North 32nd Street #110F, Phoenix, Arizona 85032, United States
Phone: +1 (602) 675-2333
Email: [email protected]
For further details, please refer to the Justice Courts Case Search.