Scam Alert · May 8, 2026 · Source: FTC

Fake traffic ticket texts asking you to pay online.

A surge of text messages claim you have an outstanding traffic violation, often showing what looks like an official court notice. They link to a fake payment page that captures your card details. Real courts don't text you about fines.

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Older adult reviewing a suspicious package delivery message

What it may look like

Fake traffic ticket notice

"FINAL NOTICE: You have an outstanding $148 traffic citation. Pay within 24 hours to avoid license suspension and additional fees: tinyurl.com/pay-citation-NY"

What not to do

Do not click any link in the message.
Do not pay anything based on a text alone.
Do not reply, even with "STOP" — it confirms the number works.

Safer next step

Look up your state's DMV or court website directly in a browser.
Search your name in your state's court records (most states offer this free).
If unsure, call the court using a number from the official state government website.

Family discussion prompt

Ask: "If I get a message about a fine or court fee, how can we check whether it's real before paying?" Agree to always call the official state government number, never a number from the message.

Source: FTC Consumer Alerts. KeepUp Academy summarizes and republishes plain-language guidance for older adults; we are not affiliated with the FTC.

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