Officials with the Prescott Police Department announced a new scam has been circulating in the area. They say they have received reports of text messages claiming to be from Arizona courts regarding mandatory collections or unpaid traffic violations. While the messages may seem legitimate, police officials say there are a few red flags.
Arizona courts do not demand payment via text message, the reported messages use urgent or threatening language, may include a QR code or payment link, and the listed violation may be vague or fail to match recipients’ driving history. Police add the graphic might include a seal that appears AI-generated. Typos and grammar errors are often present, and messages may include mentions of toll roads, despite there being no toll roads in Arizona.
Anyone who receives one of these messages should not click on any links, scan any QR codes, or send any money or personal information. Police officials say if someone is unsure about a ticket, they should contact their local court directly, using only official contact information and not what’s provided in the message.