Clerk Mike Caruso and the entire team at the Clerk of the Circuit Court & Comptroller is Here to Help protect you against scams. We want to make sure you’re on the lookout for three types of scams targeting people throughout Palm Beach County and Florida each day: Traffic ticket scams, jury duty scams, and property deed theft.

The United States Internet Crime Complaint Center reported that South Floridians lost more than $12 million to impersonation scams last year. The best way to protect yourself is to spot the signs. 

If you're in doubt, don't give your info out.

What to do if you think you may be a victim of fraud:

Act quickly! Report fraud to the appropriate law enforcement agency based on where you live and where the fraud happened. A police report may be needed depending on the circumstances. 

In Palm Beach County, contact the Palm Beach County Sheriff's Office or your local municipal police department.

If you receive a call and you are unsure about it, write down as much information as you can about the call and contact the Clerk’s office at (561) 355-2996.

You can also report fraud and scams to the Florida Division of Consumer Services at 1-800-HELP-FLA (435-7352) and to the Federal Trade Commission.

In addition, if you believe you may be a victim of property fraud:

• Contact the Property Appraiser, Tax Collector and Clerk of the Circuit Court & Comptroller to alert them of purported property fraud.
• Notify the title insurance provider if you have coverage – acting fast can help limit the damage. 
• Notify the Florida Department of State if your signature was notarized without your knowledge. 
• Report fraudulent listings to the platform where they appear (Zillow, Redfin, Craigslist, eBay, etc.). 
• Consider filing a complaint with the Federal Trade Commission or US Department of Housing and Urban Development.
• If you suspect a scam involving a licensed real estate agent, report it to the National Association of Realtors and the Florida Department of Business and Professional Regulation. 
• If you suspect a scam involving a licensed attorney, report it to the Florida Bar.

Neither the Clerk’s office, Property Appraiser or the Tax Collector can take legal action on your behalf to reverse the fraudulent activity. Therefore, you may want to consult an attorney to take appropriate action, if necessary.