West Michigan Residents Targeted by Fake Court Notice Scam

A scam that feels familiar is making the rounds again in West Michigan, but with a new twist that could catch people off guard.

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The Kent County Sheriff's Office is warning residents about fake “court notices” claiming you owe money for a traffic violation or unpaid toll. They look convincing at first glance, complete with case numbers, a judge’s name, and even a QR code to quickly settle the balance.

This is where the scam comes in.

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Some people report getting these notices by text or email, while others say they have shown up in the mail. No matter how they arrive, the goal is the same. Scammers want you to scan the code or click a link that leads to a fake payment site designed to steal your personal or financial information.

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There are a few clear red flags to watch for. Courts do not demand payment through QR codes or send unexpected messages asking for immediate payment. If something feels off, it probably is.

Michigan residents have seen similar scams before, including messages pretending to be toll agencies or even the Michigan Secretary of State, often using threats of late fees to create urgency.

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If you receive something suspicious, delete it an report it as spam. Do not scan anything, click links, or send money. Instead, verify the claim by contacting the court directly using a phone number you find yourself.