The Harris County Sheriff’s Office urged residents not to scan QR codes or make immediate payments if they receive fines or suspicious documents.
The Harris County Sheriff’s Office alerted residents in the Houston area about a scam involving fake traffic fines in Houston.
According to HCSO, some people are receiving a counterfeit document that appears to be an official traffic citation. The notice claims to come from a supposed “State of Texas Traffic Division” and includes case numbers, court dates, and a QR code demanding immediate payment of a fine.
The fake document demands immediate payment with a QR code
The alert describes a document titled “Final Enforcement Notice,” presented as if it were an official notice related to traffic offenses or fines.
The notice includes details designed to look legitimate, including supposed case numbers and court appearance dates. The centerpiece of the scam is a QR code that directs the person to make an immediate payment.
HCSO asked the community not to scan the QR code and not to send money if they receive this type of document.
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HCSO says it does not threaten arrests by phone
The Sheriff’s Office clarified that its officers do not demand payments via QR codes, do not threaten arrest by phone, and do not pressure people to pay immediately.
Authorities urged distrust of any message, call, or document that uses urgent threats to obtain money. They also reminded people to verify any citation or court notice before making payments.
The warning applies especially to documents that appear to come from a state or judicial office, but which include unusual payment methods or instructions to act without reviewing the information.
Residents can report the scam at 713-221-6000
HCSO asked those who receive this document to report the scam by calling 713-221-6000.
Authorities also recommended not sharing personal information, not scanning unknown links, and not making payments from documents received by mail, text, or any other medium without confirming their authenticity.
The alert was issued for Houston area residents after the fake document linked to alleged traffic violations circulated.
