VIPD Warns of Text Message Scam Targeting Drivers Over Traffic Violations

The Virgin Islands Police Department has issued a public warning about a text message scam falsely claiming recipients owe fines for traffic violations.

VI Police Alert: Fraudulent Traffic Violation Texts Circulating

The Virgin Islands Police Department has issued a public warning about a text message scam in which residents receive fraudulent messages claiming they owe money for traffic violations, Google News VI — Crime reports.

The scam involves unsolicited texts that appear to come from an official source, instructing recipients to pay outstanding fines related to traffic infractions. Authorities have not confirmed how many residents have been targeted.

VIPD is urging the public not to click any links contained in suspicious messages and to avoid providing personal or financial information in response to unsolicited texts. Residents who receive such messages are encouraged to report them to local law enforcement.

Smishing — phishing conducted via text message — has become an increasingly common method used by fraudsters to extract sensitive data from unsuspecting victims. Officials stress that legitimate government agencies do not typically demand payments through text message links.

Source: Google News VI — Crime