Fake fines and court summons

Criminals are sending realistic-looking digital documents (complete with forged signatures and case numbers) claiming you have an unpaid parking ticket or court fine. They pressure you to scan a QR code to pay immediately.

How the Scam Works

Initial Contact: Scammers initiate contact through text message, email, or phone call—not through official postal mail. They assert that you have an unpaid fine (such as for parking or a traffic violation) or that you missed a jury duty summons or court date. The message warns of severe consequences, including immediate arrest, warrants, or court appearances if the fine is not settled within hours.

Scammers provide suspicious links, QR codes, or request payment through unusual methods like cryptocurrency, money transfers, or cash vouchers.

Indicators of Fraud

• Texts and Emails: Official organizations (such as HM Courts & Tribunals Service or the police) never deliver court summons, enforce penalty notices, or request payments through text messages. 

• Spoofed Numbers: Fraudsters utilize spoofing technology to make their calls or text headers appear as if they are from an authentic government number. 

• Generic Greetings: Messages typically use generic salutations like "Dear Customer" instead of addressing you by name. 

• Mismatched Info: Fraudulent messages often contain spelling errors, unreasonable urgency, or mention jurisdictions/agencies that are not relevant.

How to Verify and Protect Yourself

• Avoid clicking on links or attachments: Refrain from engaging with websites or downloading files included in these suspicious messages.

• Contact the authority directly: If you suspect you have a legitimate court fine, verify it by independently looking up the court's contact details via the UK Courts and Tribunals Service Finder.

• Report the fraud: Report any suspicious texts, emails, or calls to the National Cyber Security Centre. You can also forward phishing texts to 7726