San Bernardino County Assessor-Recorder-County Clerk Josie Gonzales, Auditor-Controller/Treasurer/Tax Collector (ATC) Ensen Mason, and District Attorney Jason Anderson are alerting the public to a solicitation involving misleading letters claiming that recipients must pay off liens recorded against them. These letters often appear official and may reference legitimate public records to deceive individuals into sending money to third-party solicitors.
Assessor-Recorder-County Clerk Gonzales issued the following warning:
“Third-party solicitors are preying on our residents by sending deceptive letters that misrepresent legitimately recorded liens and demand immediate payment. While liens are a financial or legal obligation, these scam letters are designed to mislead and intimidate recipients into paying third-party companies that pass off as government entities. I urge all our residents to carefully verify any such correspondence before acting.”
“Taxpayers should always use caution when sending money to someone claiming to be a public agency, especially if they use threats or pressure tactics,” cautioned Mason. “While ATC and other government agencies send out collection letters and lien notices, be alert for bills or letters that are unusual or unfamiliar. If you receive something from our office that appears suspicious, please reach out to us before making a payment.”
“The San Bernardino County District Attorney’s Office is aware of deceiving notices coming from a third party made to appear to have come from a government organization,” stated Anderson. “If you believe you are a victim of a scam or theft, we urge you to contact your local law enforcement agency to make a report.”
If you receive a letter requesting payment for a lien, take the following precautions:
- Verify the source – Any documents coming from a government entity will be on official letterhead, will reference government websites and contact information.
- Check Public Official Records – You can review liens filed against you through the Recorder’s office at https://arc.sbcounty.gov/official-records/ or by visiting either the San Bernardino or Hesperia Recorder offices.
- Beware of urgent payment demands – Scammers often use threats or deadlines to pressure victims.
- Never reveal personal or financial information – Do not share sensitive information with unverified sources.
Residents who have received such letters or suspect fraud should be cautious before paying demands. If you require further assistance, please visit the Assessor-Recorder-County Clerk’s website at arc.sbcounty.gov or contact 909-387-8306, or the Auditor-Controller/Treasurer/Tax Collector at mytaxcollector.com or 909-387-8308.
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