How the Scam Works

• The Message: You receive a text claiming you have an "unpaid toll violation" or a "delinquent traffic ticket."
• The Threat: It warns of immediate legal action, such as driver's license suspension, registration holds, or an $185 administrative fee, if you don't pay within a short timeframe (often 12 hours).
• The Name: Scammers frequently use the name "Presiding Judge Robert Klein" or claim the notice is authorized by the "Ohio Supreme Court" or similar state agencies to add false legitimacy.
• The Link: The text includes a link to a "court portal" or "DMV" website that looks official but is actually designed to steal your credit card and personal information.

Red Flags

1. Government Agencies Don't Text for Fines: Legitimate agencies like the DMV, RMV, or state courts do not send text messages demanding immediate payment for fines.
2. Short Deadlines: Use of high-pressure tactics (e.g., "verification must be completed within 12 hours") is a hallmark of fraud.
3. Suspicious URLs: The links often use variations of official domains but are not actual government sites (e.g., .autos or .help instead of .gov).
4. Generic Greetings: These messages often lack your specific name or vehicle details.

What to Do

• Do NOT click the link or reply to the message.
• Block the sender and delete the text.
• Verify independently: If you are concerned you might actually owe a fine, contact your local municipal court or the official state toll authority directly using a phone number from their official government website.