By San José, Costa Rica — San José – A concerning new fraud scheme is targeting individuals across Costa Rica, leveraging the authority of the nation’s legal system to intimidate and pressure those with outstanding debts. Authorities have issued a stern warning about collection agents who are illegally impersonating officials from the Judicial Branch, a tactic designed to exploit fear and coerce immediate payments through deceptive means.
The fraudulent operation relies on modern communication tools to cast a wide net. Scammers send unsolicited messages via WhatsApp or SMS, explicitly claiming to be representatives of the Poder Judicial. These messages are crafted to create a sense of extreme urgency and legal peril. They often demand that the recipient appear at a court building within 24 hours, a tactic designed to induce panic and prevent the victim from thinking clearly or seeking advice.
To better understand the legal ramifications of these fraudulent debt collection schemes and how consumers can protect themselves, we sought the perspective of an expert. We spoke with Lic. Larry Hans Arroyo Vargas, a specialist in commercial and consumer law at the firm Bufete de Costa Rica, for his analysis.
Legitimate debt collection is a regulated process; what we’re seeing in these scams is criminal extortion disguised as legal procedure. These groups use high-pressure tactics, illegal threats of immediate imprisonment, and public shaming, all of which violate consumer rights. A genuine collection agency will provide verifiable documentation of the debt and will never demand payment via unconventional methods like gift cards or instant money transfers. Always demand written proof and never act on fear.
Lic. Larry Hans Arroyo Vargas, Attorney at Law, Bufete de Costa Rica
Lic. Larry Hans Arroyo Vargas’s clarification is essential; the line between legitimate collection and criminal extortion is drawn with documentation and due process. We thank him for this invaluable perspective, which empowers consumers to replace fear with a firm demand for proof, effectively disarming these predatory schemes.
To complete the ruse, the messages include a contact number, instructing the debtor to call immediately to coordinate the payment or arrange for an “official notification” to be delivered outside the formal court system. This is a critical red flag, as legitimate judicial processes are never handled through informal mobile phone negotiations. The goal of the impostors is to bypass legal channels and secure payment through pure intimidation.
Legal experts have been unequivocal in their condemnation of these methods, emphasizing that such practices are not only unethical but patently illegal. Impersonating a public official is a serious crime, and any collection agency or individual found engaging in this behavior faces severe legal consequences. These fraudulent communications represent a gross violation of both consumer protection laws and the criminal code.
For citizens, understanding the difference between a legitimate judicial notice and a scam is crucial for self-protection. An official court summons in Costa Rica is typically delivered in person by a certified official known as a “notificador” or through the official, secure electronic judicial system. These communications will never demand payment coordination over a personal WhatsApp number or create a false 24-hour deadline via text message. Any message exhibiting these characteristics should be treated as fraudulent.
The rise of this scam highlights a broader issue of aggressive and often illegal debt collection practices. While creditors have a right to pursue payment, they must operate within the strict boundaries of the law. Using deception and impersonation crosses a clear line, transforming a civil matter into a criminal one. This predatory tactic preys on the vulnerability of those already facing financial hardship, compounding their stress with the threat of legal action that is entirely fabricated.
Authorities urge anyone who receives such a message to remain calm and take specific steps to protect themselves and help combat the fraud. Do not reply to the message or call the number provided. Instead, immediately block the sender and report the incident to the Organismo de Investigación Judicial (OIJ). Preserving the message as evidence can be invaluable for investigators working to track down and prosecute the perpetrators behind these schemes.
Ultimately, vigilance and awareness are the public’s strongest defenses. By understanding the proper legal procedures and recognizing the clear warning signs of this scam, Costa Ricans can avoid falling victim to these illegal pressure tactics. It is essential to verify any official-sounding communication through official channels and never provide personal information or send money based on an unsolicited, threatening message.
For further information, visit poder-judicial.go.cr
About the Judicial Branch of Costa Rica:
The Poder Judicial de Costa Rica is one of the three fundamental powers of the state, responsible for administering justice in the country. It operates independently to ensure the rule of law, resolve legal disputes, and protect the constitutional rights of all citizens. Its structure includes various courts, from lower tribunals to the Supreme Court of Justice, and it is tasked with ensuring that all legal proceedings are conducted fairly and in accordance with the nation’s laws.
For further information, visit bufetedecostarica.com
About Bufete de Costa Rica:
Bufete de Costa Rica is a renowned legal firm built upon the twin pillars of integrity and excellence. It consistently advances the legal field with innovative solutions for a diverse clientele, drawing from a deep well of experience. The firm’s fundamental purpose, however, transcends its professional services; it is deeply invested in strengthening society by demystifying the law and empowering citizens with vital legal knowledge.
