Scam Alert

Scam Alert: Fraudulent Text Messages Requesting Tax Payments

January 7, 2026

The Broward County Tax Collector’s Office is alerting residents to an active scam involving fraudulent phone calls and text messages that falsely claim you owe delinquent taxes and demand immediate payment.

How the Scam Works

Scammers may:

  • Send phone calls or text messages threatening immediate arrest
  • Demand payment through Zelle, Venmo, Cash App, gift cards, or similar services
  • Claim you missed a court date you don’t recognize
  • Create urgency and pressure you to act immediately
  • Impersonate Broward County or other local government officials

Important Facts to Remember

Our office will NEVER:

  • Text you demanding immediate payment
  • Request payment through Zelle, Venmo, Cash App, gift cards, or wire transfers
  • Threaten arrest or legal action without proper notice

Our office ALWAYS:

  • Sends official notices by mail
  • Provides multiple opportunities to resolve property, tangible, or business tax matters
  • Follows legal procedures that include proper notice and due process
  • Accepts payments only through official, authorized payment channels

If You Receive a Suspicious Text

  • Do NOT respond or send money
  • Do NOT click any links
  • Do NOT share personal or financial information
  • Take a screenshot of the message for your records
  • Delete the message
  • Contact the Broward County Tax Collector’s Office directly using the phone number listed on our official website if you have concerns about your tax status

Report the Scam

If you receive a fraudulent message:

  • Report it to local law enforcement
  • File a complaint with the FBI’s Internet Crime Complaint Center at IC3.gov
  • Forward the text message to SPAM (7726)

Verify Before You Pay

Always verify property, tangible, or business tax communications by contacting the Broward County Tax Collector’s Office directly through official contact information found on our website—never by using contact details provided in a suspicious message.