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

Is Public Safety Crime Center a Scam or Deceptive Letter?
Is Public Safety Crime Center a Scam or Deceptive Letter?

The "Public Safety Crime Center" (PSCC) notice is a deceptive marketing campaign designed to look like an official government warning but is actually a high-pressure sales tactic from a private company. The mailer targets people who recently purchased a new vehicle. It uses urgent language to trick you into purchasing an aggressive, overpriced subscription service.

How the Mailer Works

  • Official Appearance: The letter uses a government-style name ("Public Safety Crime Center Network") and authoritative language to mimic a law enforcement warning.
  • The "Urgent" Threat: It claims your neighborhood has been flagged for high crime data and warns that police will not be able to track your stolen vehicle unless you register immediately.
  • The Free Hook: The notice offers a "complementary anti-theft pre-programmed wireless tracking device" and claims they are "waiving" a $388 fee if you act before a strict deadline.
  • The Real Catch: If you call, they will push you into an expensive monthly or annual tracking and monitoring contract (often routed to an affiliate company like Car Smarti).

Red Flags to Look Out For

  • Urgency and Deadlines: Legitimate government agencies do not give you a three-week window to protect your vehicle or waive a arbitrary fee.
  • Typos and Errors: Many of these letters contain noticeable spelling mistakes, such as writing "complementary" when they mean "complimentary".
  • Fine Print Disclaimers: If you look closely at the back of the envelope or the bottom of the letter, it will state in tiny print that it is not affiliated with any government agency or car manufacturer.
  • Redundant Services: Most modern vehicles already feature built-in tracking systems (like Hyundai Bluelink or HondaLink) that provide better, safer coverage than third-party mailer companies.

What You Should Do

  • Throw the letter away: Do not call the number or visit the website listed on the notice.
  • Do not share personal details: Do not provide your vehicle identification number (VIN), banking details, or address.
  • Use low-cost alternatives: If you want extra tracking for your car, consumer experts recommend hiding a cheap tracker like an Apple AirTag or a Samsung Galaxy SmartTag inside your vehicle instead.
  • Report misleading mailers: You can file a fraud report with the FBI's Internet Crime Complaint Center (IC3) or your local state attorney general.
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