WINDSOR LOCKS, CT — Police are warning residents about a recurring text message scam targeting drivers with fake traffic violation notices.
The Windsor Locks Police Department said the phishing scam is designed to steal financial information and identities from victims.
Police said legitimate government agencies like the Department of Motor Vehicles do not send payment demands or violation notices via text message.
The scam messages claim recipients have an “unresolved traffic citation” or “unpaid fine” that must be paid immediately to avoid penalties, according to police.
The texts threaten immediate consequences including license suspension, vehicle registration revocation, criminal prosecution or damage to credit scores.
Scammers often cite non-existent legal codes, such as “Administrative Code 16C-16.003,” and use links that appear official but lead to fraudulent websites, police said.
Some versions ask recipients to “Reply Y” to activate a link or copy a URL into their browser, tactics used to bypass phone security filters.
Police are urging residents not to respond to these text messages.
