Connecticut Superior Court Scam Text Messages

About the Scam

• Traffic Citation Text Scam: You may receive a text message claiming you have an "unresolved traffic citation" or "unpaid toll". The message often includes a fake citation number and a link to a fraudulent payment portal that looks like a CT DMV site.
• Jury Duty Phoning Scam: Scammers call claiming there was a "delivery problem" with your jury notice and demand personal information or payment to avoid legal action.
• "Notice to Appear" Email Scam: Phony emails with the subject line "Notice to Appear" contain attachments that may carry malware or viruses.

Red Flags

• Method of Contact: Connecticut courts do not initiate contact via text message or email for payments or summonses; they typically use official U.S. mail.
• Threats & Urgency: Messages often use alarming language, such as threatening to suspend your driver's license or vehicle registration within hours if you do not pay.
• Suspicious Links/QR Codes: Any request to pay via a link in a text message, QR code, or gift card is a scam.
• Demands for Sensitive Info: The court will never call to ask for your Social Security number, credit card details, or bank account information over the phone.

What to Do

1. Do Not Click: Avoid clicking any links or opening attachments in suspicious messages.
2. Report the Scam: Forward fraudulent text messages to 7726 (SPAM) and file a report with the Federal Trade Commission.
3. Verify Directly: If you are concerned about a real case or citation, contact your local court clerk's office or the Jury Administration at 1-800-842-8175 using verified numbers from official state websites.