Consumer Alert: New Parking Violation Scam Targeting North Carolina Drivers

NC AG Press Releases

Published March 25th, 2026

Detected March 27th, 2026

Summary

North Carolina Attorney General Jeff Jackson is warning residents about a new text message scam impersonating government agencies to solicit fake parking and toll violation payments. The scam uses official-sounding language and QR codes to trick recipients into providing personal information or money.

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What changed

The North Carolina Attorney General's office has issued a consumer alert regarding a new text message scam targeting drivers. The fraudulent messages falsely claim recipients have outstanding parking or toll violations, threatening legal consequences like court appearances, fines, or license suspension. These messages are designed to appear official, referencing state laws and case numbers, but they are fake and often include QR codes to steal personal information or funds through untraceable payment methods.

Consumers receiving these messages are advised not to respond, to delete them immediately, and to block the sender. For any genuine concerns about traffic or parking violations, individuals should contact the NC DMV directly. The alert emphasizes that official government agencies do not solicit personal information or demand payment via text, email, or through methods like prepaid gift cards, wire transfers, cryptocurrency, or payment apps. This notice serves as a warning to prevent consumers from falling victim to this phishing attempt.

What to do next

Do not respond to suspicious text messages regarding parking or toll violations.
Delete and block senders of fraudulent notices.
Contact the NC DMV directly for legitimate inquiries about traffic or parking violations.

Source document (simplified)

Consumer Alert: There’s a New Parking Violation Scam Targeting North Carolina Drivers

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
Wednesday, March 25, 2026
Contact: comms@ncdoj.gov
919-538-2809

RALEIGH — Attorney General Jeff Jackson is warning North Carolinians of a new text scam targeting drivers with a fake parking and toll violation notice. The message claims the recipient has an outstanding parking or toll violation that has led to an enforcement action against them and demands that the person either pay immediately or risk severe legal consequences, including a court appearance, fines, or driver’s license suspension.

“Scammers are getting more sophisticated, and this fake court notice is designed to scare you into acting fast,” said Attorney General Jeff Jackson. “Don’t fall for it. If something feels off, call my office.”

The message looks very official. It references North Carolina laws, a case number, a court hearing date and location, and a non-existent judge and clerk of court – but it is fake. The scam includes a QR code aimed at tricking recipients into handing over their money or personal information.

If you receive this message, do not respond, and immediately delete it and block the sender. If you are concerned about a potential traffic or parking violation, contact the NC DMV directly. Official government agencies will not call, text, or email you to obtain your personal information or demand money, and they will not accept payment through a prepaid gift card, wire transfer, cryptocurrency, or a payment app.

About the NCDOJ Consumer Protection Division: The Consumer Protection Division protects North Carolina consumers from scams and fraud. If you spot a scam, let us know by calling 1-877-5-NO-SCAM or filing a complaint online at ncdoj.gov/complaint.

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