Columbus Municipal Court Scam

The Scam

Scammers are sending official-looking text messages or letters claiming the recipient has outstanding parking tickets or unpaid toll fees in Columbus.

• The Demand: You are told to either pay a fine immediately through a link or QR code, or appear in court on a specific date.
• The Risk: Scanning the QR code or clicking the link may lead to malware installation on your device or the theft of your credit card and personal information.

Red Flags

• Incorrect Information: Columbus and Franklin County do not have toll roads.
• Fake Officials: The notices often name "Anne Thompson" as the Clerk of Court; however, the actual Clerk is Lori Tyack. Some versions even mistakenly reference the "Atlanta Municipal Court" despite being addressed to Ohio residents.
• Visual Inconsistencies: The documents may feature AI-generated or misspelled state seals (e.g., "TOH GREAT SEAL OF THE STATE OF OMC") and typos like "DEFAULL".
• Communication Method: The court never uses text messages to notify individuals about fines or court dates. Official notifications are only sent via U.S. mail.

What To Do

1. Do Not Comply: Do not click links, scan QR codes, or provide personal information.
2. Verify Independently: If you are unsure if you have a case, check the Franklin County Municipal Court Clerk's Record Search or call their official office directly.
3. Report the Scam: Contact your local law enforcement agency or the Ohio Attorney General’s Consumer Protection Section at 800-282-0515.
4. Do Not Show Up: The court advises that you should not go to the courthouse for these "summons" unless you have a verified, scheduled hearing on an active case.