Traffic Ticket Scam Warning: Don’t Fall for Fake Messages Yakima

Did you get the email or text message saying you have an outstanding traffic ticket that demands payment? It's a scam say officials from the Better Business Bureau.

THREATENING EMAIL AND TEXTS

The text or email says if you don't pay up you risk license suspension or prosecution. They say the scam has been around for years and keeps coming back because it finds willing victims who click on links in the message and open their computers. The BBB says if you ever question an email or text message make sure you verify the source. Don't fall for pressure tactics and never respond to an unsolicited email or text message.

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NEVER CLICK ON ANY LINKS

BBB officials say don't click on any links and never make any payments. The scam messages aren't from the Washington State Transportation Department or any police agency and they're full of links to fake payment sites.

HOW DO YOU PROTECT YOURSELF?

Delete the message and report it as junk mail. If you think you may have an outstanding traffic ticket check directly with the agency where you received the infraction using information you get from an independent source not the email or text message.

THE STATE PATROL SCAM

Another popular scam authorities are also warning about is the scam in which people say they're from the Washington State Patrol. They call, text or email requesting personal or financial information while threatening legal action even arrest or fines. A post on the Yakima County Sheriff's Office Facebook page warns of the scam. The post says the Washington State Patrol (WSP) will never call to:

• Request your bank, credit, or debit card information.
• Solicit money for fundraising, fines, or fees.
• Ask for personal information like your social security number or passwords.

Authorities say if you receive a suspicious call claiming to be from the WSP:

• Do not respond to questions.
• Ask for the caller’s name and gather as much information as possible.
• Hang up.