Scammers impersonating trial courts are aiming to really clean up this spring.
Authorities in both Massachusetts and New Hampshire are warning residents not to fall for fake notices from state trial courts. The notices, which arrive via text message, use the same template.
“A fraudulent ‘Notice of Hearing — Traffic Violation’ is circulating, claiming to be from a Massachusetts court,” the Weymouth Police Department states. “It pressures recipients to either appear in court or pay fines immediately and often directs them to scan a QR code.”
Fake court notices, designed to look as though they are printed on government stationery with state seals and formal design — which looks more like an academic diploma than a government document — are being texted to residents of both states.
“You are hereby notified that you are alleged to have committed the following violation within [Boston, Massachusetts or Manchester, New Hampshire]: Violation: Parking violation / Toll violation,” the notice states and then lists state law codes.
The documents then demand the recipient take some required action: “Appear for a herding on the date and time listed below; OR resolve the matter by payment of the assessed fine, toll, civil penalty, and authorized court costs prior to the hearing date” with warnings of penalties if the reader doesn’t comply.
The Weymouth PD notice says the letter has obvious red flags, including the “generic judge name” of John Smith, “urgent payment demands, QR code for payment,” and “unverified case details.” It warns recipients to not scan the code or send money.
Another obvious red flag is a lack of basic editing: Massachusetts is spelled as “Massachuseetts,” with two Es, in what is supposed to be official letterhead.
“These messages are fraudulent,” a New Hampshire Attorney General notice states. “The New Hampshire Judicial Branch does not notify individuals of court hearings or fines via unsolicited text messages, nor does it request payment through links sent by text.”
Authorities say that residents should always be cautious over a claim from a court or government agency that demands immediate payment. Further, recipients should not click any links or scan any QR codes, which could both be malicious, nor provide any personal or financial information — and definitely don’t submit any payments.
“Scammers often use official-looking language and documents to create a sense of urgency and fear. Consumers should take time to verify any unexpected communication before taking action,” the NHAG notice continues.
Those who receive a suspicious notice should independently look up contact information for the court, not relying on contact information provided in the document, and call or email to confirm the notice.
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