Speeding Ticket Payment Text Scam

Scammers send fake text messages claiming to be from your local or state traffic authority about an unpaid speeding ticket. The message usually references an official-sounding violation number and uses threats of further penalties—such as failing your vehicle inspection—to pressure you into paying right away. The payment link included in the message leads to a fake website built to steal your credit card or bank info.

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Primary example

How this scam works

  1. 1

    Step 1: You receive a text message saying you've been caught speeding by a traffic camera, with a notice of an unpaid fine.

  2. 2

    Step 2: The message gives a strict deadline for payment (usually 3 days) and warns that not paying could lead to bigger problems, like failing your next car inspection.

  3. 3

    Step 3: The text includes a link to a site that looks official but is operated by scammers.

  4. 4

    Step 4: If you enter your personal or payment information, scammers steal your money and your details, which can also lead to identity theft.

✓ Do this

  • Double-check any speeding or traffic violations directly with your local DMV or police department—don’t trust links in unexpected texts.
  • Look up the sender’s phone number or the payment website on Google to see if they’re real or reported as scams.
  • Delete suspicious texts and never enter personal info into unfamiliar websites.
  • Report scam texts to your local authorities or to the FTC.

✗ Avoid this

  • Don’t click on payment links in texts from unknown numbers.
  • Don’t share your card or bank info with websites you didn’t find through an official government source.
  • Don’t respond to or call back phone numbers in these texts.

Quick tip: Verify independently

Don’t call numbers or click links in unexpected messages. Go directly to the company’s official site or app and contact support from there.

See common red flags