(File Photo of a Scam Alert Logo)

Noah Haswell, Beaver County Radio News

(Harrisburg, PA) Attorney General Dave Sunday is warning Pennsylvanians about a recent text message and email scam in which individuals receive fraudulent messages, many claiming to be from Philadelphia Municipal Court, alleging an unpaid parking ticket that requires immediate payment or a court appearance. This scam may impersonate other courts or government agencies. The messages also warn of consequences for non-payment, including more fines, suspension of a driver’s license, or court enforcement action. Residents should be aware that government agencies do not conduct official business through unsolicited text messages, and most of them do not communicate by email unless the recipient has specifically requested email correspondence. According to Sunday, “Scammers rely on fear, urgency, and embarrassment to pressure people into acting quickly. Before responding to any messages like this, take a moment to verify its legitimacy. If you’re unsure, do not click any links. Ask a trusted loved one for help or contact my office to report the potential scam.” The fraudulent messages also frequently include a link which directs recipients to make a payment, but do not click that link or copy it to your browser. Any text messages or emails that are unsolicited or suspicious should be reported as spam or junk through either your phone or email provider. If you want to prevent further contact from the scammer, consumers can also block the number or email address that they think is scamming them. Anyone who received one of these scam messages should file a complaint, including a copy of the email or text message received to the Office of Attorney General’s Bureau of Consumer Protection either online by clicking here, by phone by contacting 1-800-441-2555, or by sending an email to scams@attorneygeneral.gov.