FLHSMV warns motorists about new scam involving fake court notices and unauthorized payment demands

Tallahassee, Florida – The Florida Department of Highway Safety and Motor Vehicles (FLHSMV) is alerting drivers to an ongoing scam involving counterfeit court notices that falsely claim to come from Florida county courts or judicial offices. These fraudulent messages, which target unsuspecting motorists, assert that the recipient has outstanding traffic or toll violations and demand immediate payment.

The fake notices are designed to look official, mimicking government correspondence in appearance and tone. Some of the documents even reference Florida statutes, include fabricated case numbers, or threaten serious consequences such as license suspension, registration holds, or default judgments. In other cases, the messages contain QR codes that direct recipients to unauthorized payment portals or provide unsolicited “hearing dates,” urging immediate financial action.

“These communications are not issued by any Florida court, clerk’s office, or state agency,” FLHSMV officials emphasized. Residents are reminded that legitimate government agencies will never request payment through QR codes, third-party links, or unverified online platforms.

FLHSMV also stressed that the department will never contact motorists via text message to demand payment or threaten suspension or arrest. Any communication that does so should be treated as suspicious.

Authorities are advising residents on how to respond if they receive a suspicious notice. Drivers should avoid clicking on any links, refrain from sharing personal or financial information, and report the incident immediately to the Federal Trade Commission and local law enforcement.

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Scams of this nature exploit fear and urgency, hoping recipients will act without verifying the information. Criminals are increasingly sophisticated in making fraudulent messages appear legitimate, often using official logos, similar formatting, and legal-sounding language to create a sense of authority.

“Motorists need to remain vigilant,” said a spokesperson for FLHSMV. “If something seems off, double-check with official government channels before providing any personal information or sending money.”

The scam highlights the need for ongoing awareness about digital and financial fraud. While traffic and toll violations are common, legitimate notices from courts or state agencies will include verified contact information and proper official procedures. FLHSMV encourages drivers to review correspondence carefully and to rely only on verified portals and official channels for payment or inquiries.

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By educating the public and encouraging cautious practices, FLHSMV aims to protect residents from falling victim to these schemes, which can lead to identity theft, financial loss, and unnecessary stress.

For more information on recognizing and reporting scams, residents are urged to visit the Federal Trade Commission’s website or contact local law enforcement agencies. Staying informed and cautious remains the most effective defense against these fraudulent activities.