Online Threat Alerts (OTA) - Alerting you to scams and frauds.
Franklin County Municipal Court Scam - Beware

A phishing scam is targeting residents with fake text messages and emails claiming to be from the Franklin County Municipal Court regarding unpaid traffic, parking, or toll violations. The messages, which often mention a "Final Notice" or "court enforcement action," aim to steal personal and financial information by urging victims to scan a QR code or click a link. The court does not send text alerts for fines, and all official notifications are sent via mail.

Details of the Scam

  • Method: Text messages or emails directing you to a malicious website, often demanding immediate payment.
  • Red Flags: The messages often demand immediate payment for a "failed to pay toll" or "parking violation" and feature a QR code to scan, which can install malware.
  • Fake Authority: The fraudulent notices may bear the Great Seal of Ohio, but they often contain spelling errors, generic language, or incorrect legal terms.
  • Fake Clerk Name: Some scams have used the name of Anne Thompson as the clerk, but the real Clerk of Court for the Franklin County Municipal Court is Lori Tyack.

Protect Yourself

  • Do Not Scan or Click: Never click links or scan QR codes in suspicious texts or emails.
  • Verify Independently: If you have concerns about a potential violation, contact the Franklin County Municipal Court directly to confirm the status.
  • Report It: Contact local law enforcement if you have received one of these messages.
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