PENNSYLVANIA (WBNG) — Attorney General Dave Sunday is alerting Pennsylvanians about an email and text message scam that claims to be from a municipal court.
The fraudulent messages appear to come from the Philadelphia Municipal Court, alleging that the recipient has an unpaid parking ticket that requires immediate payment or a court appearance. It may also include a link directing recipients to make a payment, but users should beware of fraudulent or dangerous links.
Scams may also impersonate other courts or government agencies. The messages advise consequences for non-payment, including additional fines, driver’s license suspension or court enforcement action.
“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.”
Sunday says government agencies do not manage official business through unsolicited text messages or communicate by email unless recipients have requested an email response.
Recipients should report the fraudulent messages as spam or junk, and proceed to block the number or email address to prevent further contact with the sender.
Additionally, a complaint including a copy of the email or text should be filed to the Office of the Attorney General’s Bureau of Consumer Protection online. Email scams@attorneygeneral.gov, or call 1-800-441-2555.
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