Fulton County, Georgia – Residents across Fulton County are being warned about a new wave of fraudulent messages claiming unpaid tolls, parking tickets, or other traffic-related citations. Authorities say the notices are not legitimate and are part of an ongoing scam designed to trick people into sending money.
In recent days, members of the public have reported receiving alarming texts and notifications stating that payment for a violation is overdue. The messages often threaten serious consequences, including license suspension, arrest warrants, or court penalties. Some even include fabricated case numbers, invented court dates, and false judicial details in an effort to appear credible.
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One version circulating in the community closely mimics an official court notice. It lists a supposed violation such as “Failure to Pay Toll,” along with a fake case number and a made-up hearing date and address. The message may also feature a QR code labeled “Scan to pay,” encouraging immediate payment. In some cases, scammers misuse court seals, signatures, or official titles to make the document look authentic.
Officials stress that Georgia courts do not send unexpected text messages demanding payment. They also do not require individuals to pay fines through QR codes or text links. Legitimate court notices will never pressure recipients to pay immediately under threat of arrest.
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The goal of the scam is to create urgency and fear. By suggesting that legal trouble is imminent, scammers hope recipients will act quickly without verifying the information. Authorities are urging residents to pause and review any such message carefully before taking action.
Anyone who receives a suspicious notification is advised not to respond, click on any links, or scan QR codes included in the message. Instead, residents should take a screenshot of the communication and contact the appropriate court directly using the official phone number listed on the government’s website, not the number provided in the message. Suspected scams should also be reported to local law enforcement.
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Officials continue to encourage vigilance as these deceptive messages circulate throughout the county.