Scammers are sending messages and/or documents that appear as legitimate parking violation notices with the goal of convincing targets that they owe for a ticket and pressure them to pay quickly.

How the Scam Works
In Boston, police have issued a warning regarding fraudulent notices designed to resemble a Boston Municipal Court parking violation hearing notice. The documents include details such as a case number, hearing date, and a QR code directing recipients to a payment website. The Boston Police Department advises the public to verify legitimate parking violations through the City of Boston’s official parking ticket payment website. These scams are occuring in other areas as well. 

Red Flags

  • Unexpected messages regarding parking violations
  • Requests to pay through a QR code or link
  • Pressure to pay quickly

What To Do If You Receive This Message

  • Do not scan the QR code or click the link
  • Do not send payment
  • Contact your local court or municipality directly using a verified phone number or website
  • Report suspicious notices to local authorities

Source: CUNA Strategic Services