Notice of Default California Scam

About the Scam

• The Court Text Scam: Scammers send fake "Notice of Default" or "Civil Infraction Hearing" texts that look like official documents with state seals and judge's names. They often use QR codes or suspicious links to demand immediate payment for a fake debt.
• Foreclosure Rescue Scams: Fraudsters monitor public records for actual recorded Notices of Default and contact homeowners offering "help" to save their home. They often demand upfront fees for loan modifications or try to trick you into transferring your property title.

Red Flags

• Urgency: The notice claims you must pay "tomorrow" or within 12 hours to avoid arrest or license suspension.
• QR Codes: Real courts do not use QR codes for payment on unsolicited notices.
• Payment Methods: Demands for payment via cryptocurrency, wire transfers, gift cards, or payment apps (like Venmo or CashApp) are major signs of fraud.
• Errors: Look for typos, mismatched court names (e.g., a "California" notice signed by a clerk in Georgia), or incorrect state seals.

What You Should Do

1. Do Not Engage: Never click links, scan QR codes, or call the phone number provided in a suspicious text or email.
2. Verify Directly: Look up the official number for your local court or the California DMV and call them to verify if any action is truly pending.
3. Report the Scam:
   • File a report with the Federal Trade Commission (FTC).
   • Forward scam texts to 7726 (SPAM) to alert your carrier.
   • Report local incidents to your local police department.

4. Seek Free Help: If you are facing a real foreclosure, contact a HUD-approved housing counselor for free assistance through the Homeowner's HOPE Hotline at 888-995-HOPE.