Scam alert: Fake traffic violation texts target Lancaster County residents

LINCOLN, Neb. — Lancaster County authorities are warning residents about a scam text message claiming to be a "final notice" regarding unpaid traffic violations. The message is not legitimate and was not sent by Lancaster County or any official court entity.

According to the Lancaster County Sheriff's Office, the text message tells victims they have not paid an outstanding traffic violation and that the matter is now under court enforcement. The scam encourages immediate action by threatening penalties and typically includes a QR code. Some versions circulating in Nebraska claim to come from Lancaster County Court and warn recipients of charges related to toll evasion or parking violations.

"Nebraska courts do NOT send out automated text messages when traffic fines are due," county officials stated in the alert. The sheriff's office reminds people not to scan the QR code, make any payments, or provide personal information to scammers. If you receive the message, delete it immediately.

The scam is part of a nationwide trend. The Federal Trade Commission advises that if you think the message might be real, you should check the court's website for case information or call the court directly using a phone number you know is correct — never use information from the text message. The FTC encourages anyone who has been scammed to report it at ReportFraud.ftc.gov.

Residents who have questions about a potential traffic violation can contact their local government agencies directly to verify its authenticity.