Palos Park, IL – Police are warning Illinois residents to be on alert after reports of scammers posing as legal officials and using threats of court action to pressure people into providing money or personal information.
According to the Palos Park Police Department, scammers are making phone calls, leaving voicemails, and sending text messages falsely claiming legal action has been filed against victims. The messages often use intimidating language designed to create panic and convince people to act immediately.
Police said the scams may include claims that:
- Court documents have been filed.
- Civil or criminal action is pending.
- A courier or process server is on the way.
- Victims must immediately call a provided phone number.
- Reference numbers are given to make the scam appear legitimate.
Authorities emphasized that legitimate court proceedings are handled through official legal channels and do not require immediate payment over the phone.
The department advises residents never to provide personal, financial, or banking information to unsolicited callers and not to send money based solely on a phone call, voicemail, or text message.
If you’re unsure whether a communication is legitimate, police recommend independently verifying the information through official court or government sources rather than using contact information provided by the caller.
According to the Palos Park Police Department, scammers rely on fear, urgency, and confusion to pressure victims into making quick decisions. Residents who receive suspicious calls or messages are encouraged to hang up, avoid responding, and report the incident to local law enforcement.
