Scam Alert The Oneida County Sheriff’s Office is warning…

Scam Alert

The Oneida County Sheriff’s Office is warning residents about an ongoing scam involving fraudulent traffic violation notices sent via text message.

These messages claim to be from a court and often reference a “Judge Michael Rodriguez,” along with an alleged outstanding traffic, toll, or parking violation. The messages typically threaten immediate legal consequences—such as license suspension, fines, or court action—and direct recipients to scan a QR code or click a link to make payment.

This is a scam.

What to Know:Courts do not send legal notices via text messageCourts do not demand payment through QR codes or unsolicited linksThese messages are designed to create urgency and fear to prompt immediate payment

Common Red Flags:Generic messages with no personal identifying informationState seals or insignias appear incorrect or distortedThreats of immediate legal action or arrestRequests for payment via QR codes, prepaid cards, or online linksMisspellings, poor formatting, or inconsistent court information

What You Should Do:Do not click links or scan QR codesDo not provide personal or financial informationDelete the message and block the sender