Ohio Attorney General Warns Residents About Text Scam Claiming Unpaid Parking or Toll Fines
COLUMBUS, Ohio — Ohio Attorney General Dave Yost is warning residents across the state about a growing text message scam that falsely claims recipients owe unpaid parking or toll fines and must pay immediately to avoid court action.
According to the Attorney General’s Office, the fraudulent messages are designed to create a sense of urgency and fear, pressuring people to quickly send money or provide personal information.
“Scammers rely on fear and urgency,” Yost said. “If you receive a message threatening court action or demanding immediate payment, take a moment to verify it before responding.”
Authorities say the scam messages typically include what appears to be an official court notice and often feature a QR code that directs recipients to a website where they are instructed to pay the supposed fine.
However, investigators say the notices are not connected to any legitimate court system. Instead, the links lead to websites whose domains have been traced to entities operating overseas.
In addition to financial fraud, officials warn that scanning a QR code sent by scammers could expose a phone or computer to malware or other cybersecurity threats.
The Attorney General’s Office says scammers frequently imitate official government documents in an attempt to gain trust. While some details on the fake notices may appear legitimate, closer inspection often reveals inconsistencies, such as incorrect seals, unusual instructions, or unfamiliar website addresses.
How to Protect Yourself
The Ohio Attorney General’s Office recommends several steps residents can take to avoid falling victim to these scams:
Do not scan QR codes or click links included in unexpected legal notices or text messages.
Verify claims independently by contacting the court directly using an official phone number or website.
Watch for warning signs, including incorrect seals, unfamiliar web addresses, or suspicious payment instructions.
Officials stress that legitimate courts do not typically demand immediate payment through text messages or QR codes.
Anyone who believes they have received a scam notice is encouraged to report it to the Ohio Attorney General’s Consumer Protection Section. Complaints can be filed online at www.OhioProtects.org or by calling 800-282-0515.
State officials say reporting these scams helps investigators track patterns and prevent others from becoming victims.
As scams become more sophisticated, Yost is urging Ohioans to stay alert and verify suspicious communications before taking action.
