Attorney General Dave Sunday is warning Pennsylvanians about a text message and email scam in which individuals receive fraudulent messages claiming to be from a municipal court and alleging an unpaid parking ticket that requires immediate payment or a court appearance.
Many of the messages appear to come from Philadelphia Municipal Court, but the scam may impersonate other courts or government agencies. The messages warn of consequences for non-payment, including additional fines, driver’s license suspension, or court enforcement action.
According to the Attorney General’s Office, government agencies do not conduct official business through unsolicited text messages, and most do not communicate by email unless the recipient has specifically requested email correspondence.
“Scammers rely on fear, urgency, and embarrassment to pressure people into acting quickly,” Attorney General Sunday said. “Before responding to any messages like this, take a moment to verify its legitimacy. If you’re unsure, do not click any links. Ask a trusted loved one for help or contact my office to report the potential scam.”
The fraudulent messages frequently include a link directing recipients to make a payment. Residents are advised not to click the link or copy it into a browser.
Unsolicited or suspicious text messages or emails should be reported as spam or junk through a phone or email provider. Consumers can also block the number or email address to prevent further contact.
Anyone who has received one of these scam messages is encouraged to file a complaint, including a copy of the email or text message received, with the Office of Attorney General’s Bureau of Consumer Protection online, by phone at 1-800-441-2555, or by email at scams@attorneygeneral.gov.
