Online Threat Alerts (OTA) - Alerting you to scams and frauds.
co-26-tr-273196 Text Message Scam

The code "CO-26-TR-273196" (often appearing with variations like IL, NJ, TX, or MN prefixes) is a fictitious case number used in a widespread text message scam targeting residents across multiple U.S. states. It is also written as NJ-26-TR-273196, IL-26-TR-273196, TX-26-TR-273196, MN-26-TR-273196 or TN-26-TR-273196)

About the Scam

  • The Message: Recipients receive a text claiming they have an outstanding parking or toll violation and must appear for a court hearing.
  • The Goal: The text often includes an "official" looking notice signed by a generic name like "Judge John Smith" and directs you to scan a QR code or click a link to pay a civil penalty to avoid the hearing.
  • Why It Is Fake:
    • Courts and government agencies do not send official summons or payment demands via unsolicited text messages.
    • The same case number and "Judge John Smith" signature have been reported in various jurisdictions, including Cook County (IL), Newark (NJ), Dallas (TX), and Baltimore (MD).
    • The "laws" or authorities cited in the messages are often incorrect or generic.

Recommended

  1. Do not click any links or scan any QR codes.
  2. Do not provide personal or financial information.
  3. Verify independently by contacting your local Clerk of Court or Municipal Court directly using an official phone number or Official Government Website.
  4. Report the scam to the FBI Internet Crime Complaint Center (IC3) or your local law enforcement.