Welcome to Fraud Friday!
Bail bondsmen provide a service that helps people get released from jail while waiting for court. When someone is arrested, it can cause very emotional situations not only for them but for their loved ones as well. One way that scammers exploit inmates and their families is through bail bond scams. These scams often involve fake agents, illegal fees, or deceptive contracts and can cost victims several thousands of dollars. Understanding these types of schemes is the best way to avoid becoming a target. Below are some of the most common ways fraudsters operate bail bond scams, warning signs, and how to avoid becoming a victim.
- Fake Bail Bondsmen: One of the most serious and common scams involve people pretending to be a licensed bail bond agent. They may monitor public jail booking records (Jail View in Etowah County) in order to contact family members shortly after an arrest. Once the scammer gets all the info they need to contact the inmate’s family, there are promises of quick release as long as payment is sent immediately. These scammers often ask for payment in the form of wire transfers, gift cards, crypto, and/or instant payment apps (CashApp, PayPal, Venmo, etc.). Of course, once the money is sent the scammer disappears and no bail is ever posted. Here are some warning signs of fake bondsmen:
- They refuse to show a license.
- They push for immediate payment.
- They avoid meeting in person or lack a physical office.
- Hidden or Illegal Fees: Many times, bail bond agents charge a regulated percentage of the bail amount, usually around 10%. Some dishonest agents or scammers advertise lower rates and then add extra fees later. These costs may not appear until the contract is signed and can dramatically increase the final price. Some examples of hidden charges include but are not limited to:
- Processing fees
- Administrative fees
- Emergency filing fees
- Collateral Scams: Sometimes, depending on the charge and amount of bail, a bondsman will require collateral. This could be in the form of a car title, jewelry, property, electronics, or other valuables. However, in a collateral scam proper documentation of the collateral is usually not required which makes it difficult for victims of bail bond fraud to recover their property. Fake agents may:
- Refuse to return property after the case ends.
- Claim damage or additional fees.
- Use unclear paperwork to keep the collateral.
- Phone Scams Targeting Families: Unfortunately, this is the type of scam our customers have been seeing. Fraudsters call inmates relatives pretending to represent a legitimate bail agency or even the jail. They try and convince the family that the arrested person can be released immediately if a bail fee is paid right away. These calls can cause panic and in turn pressure victims to make quick decisions without taking the time to think it through. Legitimate jails do not call families asking for payment, and initial contact with a bail bondsman must be made by the inmate or person who is going to post bond. If you receive an unsolicited call from someone claiming to be a bail bondsman, chances are it is a scam. Here are some warning signs that you are not speaking to an actual bondsman:
- Urgent threats about losing release opportunities.
- Requests for unusual payment amounts and methods.
- Poor or inconsistent information about the case.
If you or a loved one ever needs a bail bondsman, taking a few extra minutes to verify an agent can help prevent major financial losses. The steps below can reduce risk as well:
- Verify the agent’s state license
- Ask for a written contract explaining all fees
- Avoid sending money through unconventional means and NEVER give out your bank or debit card information
- If you receive a call from someone saying they are a bail bondsman, verify that the person they say is in jail has actually been arrested
- Confirm the company is real and has a legit office location
- Keep copies of receipts and all documentation
Life happens and people make mistakes. Situations involving someone being arrested can be a stressful and scary thing. As long as there is crime or tragedy, scammers will find a way to capitalize. When it comes to bail bondsmen, taking the time to verify the company and read all contracts carefully, you can help yourself avoid becoming a victim of a bail bond scam.
Tara Montgomery
Exchange Bank of Alabama
Fraud Specialist
(256) 691-0328
