Beware of Fake Bailiffs: The Growing Scam Targeting Homeowners
Criminals posing as bailiffs are using threats and fake court documents to pressure victims into paying thousands of pounds for debts that don’t exist. The scam plays on fear and urgency, making people believe they must pay immediately or risk losing their possessions.
How the Scam Works
Victims receive a sudden phone call claiming they owe a large debt, often related to marketing fees or unpaid services. They are told that bailiffs are on the way to remove their belongings unless the debt is settled immediately.
The scammers even provide a bogus court contact number, which leads to a convincing fake switchboard. Victims who call are connected to someone pretending to be a court official, reinforcing the illusion that the debt is real.
Paul’s Story: "I Was Terrified"
Paul, a holiday cottage owner from Northumberland, received a call from a so-called bailiff, claiming he owed £2,950 plus a £970 fee from an old court judgment. The caller said, "The boys and I are coming round today to collect furniture from your house."
Paul was then directed to a fake court line where a fraudster posing as an official confirmed the debt. He was even sent forged court documents via email. However, when he was asked to transfer money to a personal bank account, alarm bells rang.
"All the way through, the ‘bailiff’ kept calling, demanding to know if I'd sent the money," Paul said. Realising it was a scam, he searched for the real court contact number, which was different from the one provided.
Victoria’s Close Call: "I Was in Panic Mode"
Victoria, from Cheshire, was also targeted. She was told that bailiffs were 40 minutes away, and her possessions would be taken if she didn’t pay.
"I went into panic mode," she said. A fake court official claimed she owed money from a Google advertising trial she had supposedly failed to cancel. The pressure escalated when another scammer called, posing as a more aggressive bailiff, demanding immediate payment.
As she was about to send the money, her husband searched for the real court number and discovered the scam just in time.
Why This Scam Is So Convincing
Scammers use sophisticated tricks to appear legitimate, including:
✔ Fake court switchboards that sound real
✔ Forged legal documents sent via email
✔ Personal details like names and business information to gain trust
✔ High-pressure tactics to force immediate payment
How to Protect Yourself
🔹 Stay Calm: Scammers rely on panic to force quick decisions.
🔹 Verify the Debt: Always contact the court using the official number found on GOV.UK.
🔹 Look for Red Flags: Real enforcement officers never demand payment to a personal bank account.
🔹 Know Your Rights: Bailiffs must give proper notice and allow time to verify claims.
🔹 Report Suspicious Calls: Contact Action Fraud (0300 123 2040) or Police Scotland (101) if targeted.
The Bigger Picture
The Ministry of Justice warns that impersonating a bailiff is a criminal offence. Meanwhile, Sarah Naylor of the Civil Enforcement Association says reports of this scam are rising, but many cases go unreported.
"These scams work on urgency and fear," she explains. Genuine bailiffs will always give time to verify details and offer multiple payment options.
If you receive a call like this, stop and think. Scammers rely on fear—but knowledge is power. Stay vigilant and don’t fall for their tricks.