Scam Alert: Fake Traffic Citation Text Messages

SCAM ALERT

The Maui Police Department is alerting the public to a recurring text message scam that falsely claims recipients have unpaid traffic citations and appears to originate from the Hawaiʻi District Court.

The fraudulent message states that the recipient has an outstanding traffic ticket and threatens serious consequences if immediate action is not taken. The message warns that failure to comply will result in:

• Issuance of an arrest warrant

• Immediate suspension of the recipient's driver's license

• Vehicle impoundment

• Civil legal action

• Wage garnishment or withholding

• Asset seizure

The message then directs recipients to click a link and make payment through what it claims are "official channels."

The Maui Police Department reminds the public that courts and government agencies do not send unsolicited text messages demanding immediate payment or threatening legal action through links sent via text message.

If you receive a message such as this:

• Do not click on any links contained in the message.

• Do not provide personal, financial, or identifying information.

• Do not submit payment through the provided link.

• Delete the message immediately.

Anyone who may have clicked the link or provided personal or financial information is encouraged to contact their financial institution immediately, monitor their accounts for suspicious activity, and report the incident to the Maui Police Department at (808) 244-6400.