Park City police warn residents about fraudulent court payment scam

Park City police are warning residents about a fraudulent text message that uses an official-looking court notice and QR code to demand payment for alleged traffic violations. Photo: TownLift

PARK CITY, Utah — Park City police are warning residents about a fraudulent text message circulating that appears to threaten court enforcement action and asks recipients to scan a QR code to settle an unpaid balance.

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The message, shared in a warning from the Park City Police Department, includes what appears to be an official-looking “State of Utah” court notice. The notice claims the recipient has outstanding traffic violations and warns that failure to act could result in penalties, license suspension, collection action, or other consequences.

Police said the message is not legitimate.

“Do NOT scan the QR code,” the department said in its warning. “Do NOT send any money or personal information.”

The scam appears designed to pressure recipients into immediate payment by using official-looking language, a court case number, a judge’s name, and threats of legal consequences. The notice directs recipients to scan a QR code to “settle your unpaid balance.”

Park City police reminded residents that law enforcement agencies will never call or text to demand payment.

Anyone who receives the message should delete it and report it as spam, according to the department.

Police also encouraged residents to help spread the word, particularly to family members or neighbors who may be more vulnerable to official-looking payment scams.