MONTPELIER, VT — The Montpelier Police Department is warning residents about fraudulent text messages claiming to be from the “Vermont State Government” regarding overdue traffic fines.
The scam messages threaten enforcement action and demand immediate payment, according to police.
Officials said legitimate government agencies do not send threatening texts with suspicious links or demand immediate payment through text messages.
The fraudulent messages reference vague statutes, urgent deadlines and severe penalties designed to create panic and pressure recipients into clicking malicious links or sharing personal information, police said.
Warning signs include unexpected legal threats sent by text, misspelled or altered wording, references to vague laws and links that are not official .gov websites.
Police advise residents not to click links or reply to the messages.
Anyone with concerns should verify information directly through official government websites.
Residents can report scam texts to 7726 (SPAM) and should delete the messages.
Anyone who already entered information should contact their bank immediately and monitor their accounts, police said.
