Identity Theft and Online Fraud
What if I find out the deceased was a victim of a scam before they died?
Short answer
The estate may have legal recourse. Contact the California Department of Justice Bureau of Malpractice Investigation, the FTC, or a consumer protection attorney. If significant money was involved, a private attorney may take the case on contingency. Document everything you find —…
What this usually means
The estate may have legal recourse. Contact the California Department of Justice Bureau of Malpractice Investigation, the FTC, or a consumer protection attorney. If significant money was involved, a private attorney may take the case on contingency. Document everything you find — records, correspondence, transaction history.
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What to do next
- Start the PathAfter checklist for situation-aware first steps.
- Find California county phone numbers for coroner, vital records, and local offices.
- Open the First 72 Hours Call Log before making calls.
- Open the Documents to Find Checklist when you are ready for paperwork.