Cook County, IL – Officials are warning residents about fraudulent court text messages requesting payments and personal information.
According to the Office of the Clerk of the Circuit Court of Cook County, scam messages are circulating that claim to be official notices regarding traffic violations or court hearings. The messages often direct recipients to scan a QR code or follow a link to submit payment.
Authorities emphasized these messages are not legitimate. The Clerk’s Office does not send court notices or traffic violation alerts via text message.
Officials warn that scanning the QR code or submitting payment through these links could expose individuals to financial fraud or identity theft. Residents are advised not to engage with the messages, avoid sharing personal or financial information, and delete the texts immediately.
According to the Clerk’s Office, all official case information, notices, and payment options should only be accessed through verified channels, including the official Cook County Circuit Court website or by contacting the office directly.
Anyone who receives one of these fraudulent messages is encouraged to report it to local law enforcement and the Illinois Attorney General’s Office.
The warning comes as officials continue efforts to address scams that misuse the court system’s name to target residents.
For students and young workers who frequently rely on mobile alerts, officials stress verifying any legal notice before taking action.
