Police Warn of Fake Traffic Ticket Texts Circulating Again

Scams are unfortunately everywhere. Whether it's a phishing scam in an email, classic telemarketers offering deals and incentives that are too good to be true, or in this case, text scams, it's hard to keep up.

How the Rhode Island Text Scam Works

I think we've all developed a decent amount of skepticism in our minds to flag things like this, but sometimes these scams look legit.

Just the other day, I received a text from the State of Rhode Island Traffic Tribunal. Was the number strange? Yes. That was the first red flag. Plus, any "official" paperwork or notice would not be sent that way.

Why This Scam Looks So Convincing

However, in all honesty, I did get a speeding ticket last year from a traffic cam in a school zone. Oops! I had paid it, but at quick glance I had a panic that perhaps it never went through.

Nevertheless, I didn't respond and Googled the scam just to double-check. Sure enough, it was back.

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The "Final Enforcement Notice" is somewhat threatening, saying the "matter has been escalated" and states an upcoming court hearing, payment instructions and more.

Yup, this was out over the summer and I never got it that time around. Maybe you didn't, either. However, this is your warning to be on the lookout yet again.

Police Issue Warning to Residents

Authorities are also warning the public. Shortly after receiving my text, I noticed the Warwick Police Department put out a message on their Facebook page, alerting the public of the same.

How to Protect Yourself From Text Scams

• Official traffic violations are not sent via text message
• Government agencies will not request payment through unsolicited texts or links
• Do not click any links or provide personal or financial information

If you receive one:
• Delete it
• Do not reply
• Report it as spam through your carrier

Why You Might Still Be Targeted

Considering that the scam mentions the State of Rhode Island, residents of the Ocean State are most likely the only ones being targeted.

However, I haven't lived in RI for over a decade. So if you're like me and refuse to give up your 401 area code, don't be shocked if you, too, get this scam.