I received an iMessage stating I have an outstanding traffic ticket. How do I check this out & pay if it is accurate?

It’s wise to be cautious about iMessages regarding outstanding traffic tickets, as there are many scams circulating that use this tactic to get your personal information or money. Government agencies typically do not send initial notifications of outstanding tickets via text message.

Here’s how to check if it’s accurate and what to do if it is (or isn’t):

1. Assume it’s a Scam First (and don’t click links!):

• Do NOT click any links in the iMessage. These links often lead to fake websites designed to steal your personal and financial information.
• Do NOT reply to the message. This can confirm your number is active to scammers.
• Do NOT provide any personal or financial information.
• Look for red flags: Scammers often use generic greetings (“Dear Customer”), threaten immediate penalties (like license suspension), and have poor grammar or spelling. Official communications will usually address you by name and be well-written.

2. How to Verify a Traffic Ticket (The Official Way):

The process for checking and paying traffic tickets varies by location, as tickets are typically issued by local or state authorities, not a centralized national system.

• Identify the Issuing Authority: Think about where you were driving recently. Was it a specific city, county, or state? This will help you narrow down where to check.
• Check the Official Website:
  • State or County Courts/DMV/Motor Vehicle Division: Most states and counties have online systems where you can search for traffic citations using your name, driver’s license number, or citation number. Look for websites ending in “.gov” (e.g., [StateName].gov or [CountyName].gov).
  • Central Violations Bureau (CVB): If you received a ticket on federal property (like a national park or military installation), you’d check with the Central Violations Bureau (cvb.uscourts.gov).
  • Specific City/Municipal Courts: For tickets issued within a city, check that city’s official court website.
• Call the Official Agency: If you can’t find information online, or prefer to speak with someone, call the relevant court clerk’s office or Department of Motor Vehicles (or equivalent) directly. Do not use a phone number provided in the suspicious iMessage. Find the official number on their government website.
• Check Your Mail: Official traffic tickets are almost always sent via physical mail. If you haven’t received anything in the mail, it’s highly suspicious.

3. If You Find an Outstanding Ticket:

• Follow the Official Payment Instructions: Once you’ve confirmed a ticket is legitimate through an official source (government website, direct phone call), follow their instructions for payment. Most jurisdictions offer online payment options through secure portals on their official websites. You may also be able to pay by mail or in person.
• Keep Records: Always keep a record of your payment (confirmation number, receipt, etc.).

4. Reporting the Scam iMessage:

• Report as Junk/Spam: On your iPhone, you can report the iMessage as junk.
• Block the Number: Block the sender’s number to prevent future messages from them.
• Delete the Message: Once reported and blocked, delete the message.
• Report to Authorities: You can report these scams to:
  • The Federal Trade Commission (FTC) at ReportFraud.ftc.gov
  • The Internet Crime Complaint Center (IC3) at ic3.gov

It’s always better to err on the side of caution when dealing with unexpected messages about financial obligations. Always verify through official channels.