Don’t scan that QR code. Officials warn of new text scam in the Triangle
AI-generated summary reviewed by our newsroom.
- Scammers send court-themed texts urging immediate payment for fake traffic fines.
- Officials advise never to scan QR codes or provide Social Security or payment data.
- Verify alleged citations by contacting the clerk of superior court before paying.
You can ignore that unprompted “final and urgent” text screaming to pay an outstanding traffic violation or toll. It’s a scam.
Triangle residents are getting scam text messages with a “notice” from the Wake County District Court saying the person has outstanding traffic violations and must pay a fine or appear in court, according to a news release from North Carolina Administrative Office of the Courts.
“Scammers are very convincing and often have your name and address, use the name of a real judge or law enforcement officers and refer to local locations to make you believe the communication is legitimate,” according to the news release.
Attorney General Jeff Jackson also sent out a warning about the scam, urging people to delete and block the sender.
“Scammers are getting more sophisticated, and this fake court notice is designed to scare you into acting fast,” Jackson said in a news release. “Don’t fall for it. If something feels off, call my office.”
How to spot a scam message
Court staff and Sheriff’s Office staff do not text or email residents requesting:
- Social Security numbers
- Credit card numbers
- Money
- Pre-paid debit card numbers
- Payments by money grams or wires
- Or any other sensitive financial information
People are encouraged not to click on any links or scan QR codes, and to mark the messages or the sender as spam or junk.
“You can always contact your local clerk of superior court’s office to verify if you have in fact, an outstanding issue,” according to the news release.
Other recent scams in NC
It’s the latest in a string of scams targeting drivers. The N.C. Division of Motor Vehicles warned that text messages about unpaid traffic tickets weren’t real, The News & Observer reported previously.
Fake QR codes have also been a problem on some downtown Raleigh street parking meters, with the city warning drivers should only see QR codes if they are paying parking violations or in parking garages, The N&O previously reported.
You can call 1-877-5-NO-SCAM to report a scam to the North Carolina Department of Justice Consumer Protection Division or filing a complaint online at ncdoj.gov/complaint.
This story was originally published March 25, 2026 at 12:15 PM.
