Valley authorities have received an increase in reports of a new scam targeting area residents. The scam involves fraudulent “Notice of Violation” text messages which claim that a “speed monitoring camera” has captured you speeding and demanding immediate action. The text further instructs you to click a link and make immediate payment to avoid having to appear in court. Currently, the message appears to be coming from the City of Phoenix.
How the Scam Works
Fake Violation Message: Scammers send out mass text messages, pretending to be from legitimate authorities such as the City of Phoenix or other municipal bodies. These messages inform recipients that they have been caught speeding by a camera, often in school or construction zones where fines can be higher, making the claim that much more alarming.
Urgent Payment Demand: The message creates a sense of urgency by stating that failure to pay immediately will result in court action. This tactic is designed to panic recipients into acting quickly and without taking time to verify the claim.
Fraudulent Link: The message includes a link that directs the receiver to a fake website, which looks legitimate and mimics an official city or court page. Once on the site, recipients are prompted to provide personal details, such as name, address, driver’s license number and payment information.
Stealing Your Information: Once the scammers have received this information, they are able to use it to steal identities, commit fraud, or access personal financial accounts. The payment details entered are compromised and the scammers begin using it for as many unauthorized transactions as they will be able to get away with.
What To Be Aware Of:
• Municipal Court, or any legitimate court, will never request or accept payment via text message or email.
• Legitimate requests by any government agency can be verified. No requesting agency will force you to do anything without first being able to confirm the claim. Verify the source of such messages by directly contacting the agency in question.
• Never click on links in unsolicited messages. These can lead to phishing websites designed to steal sensitive information.
How to Stay Protected:
• Do not click on any links in suspicious messages.
• Do not provide any personal or payment information requested through unsolicited texts or emails.
• Delete the text or email and do not respond or engage in any way.
If you or someone you know has received a suspicious text, email, phone call or in-person visit, before agreeing to anything, contact the main line for the agency or company that is in question and ask for assistance.
