Online Threat Alerts (OTA) - Alerting you to scams and frauds.

Circuit Court of Cook County Scam

A fraudulent "Illinois Circuit Court – Hearing Notice" scam is targeting residents with fake, unsolicited, notices via text or mail, falsely demanding payment for unpaid parking or traffic fines. The scam uses, a QR code for payment and threatens legal action. The Circuit Court of Cook County does not use this method; do not scan the code, click links, or provide financial information.

About the Scam

  • The Scam Method: Victims receive texts or letters claiming they owe money for parking/traffic violations, directing them to scan a QR code to pay.
  • Official Warning: The Office of the Chief Judge and the Clerk of the Circuit Court of Cook County have confirmed these are not legitimate.
  • Red Flags: The court does not send notices via text, does not ask for payment via QR codes, and does not threaten immediate arrest for fines.
  • What to Do: Do not click links or scan codes. Delete the message. Verify any legitimate traffic or parking citations directly through official channels.

How to Protect Yourself:

  • Verify Independently: Check case information only through the official Clerk of the Circuit Court of Cook County website or by calling 312-603-5030.
  • Report the Scam: If you receive a notice, report it to the Illinois Attorney General's Office Consumer Fraud Hotline at 1-800-386-5438.
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