Scam Emerges Amid Traffic Cam Consternation In Middletown: Police

MIDDLETOWN, CT — As if getting used to traffic cameras wasn't enough, a scam involving phony "ticket" messages, seemingly from the Department of Motor Vehicles, has made its way to Middletown, police said.

"There has been an uptick in calls concerning text messages from the Connecticut DMV in regards to an outstanding traffic ticket," police said. "This comes at a time where the city of Middletown has implemented speed cameras. If you received an infraction in the mail, you can only pay via credit card online — no cash, no check, and only through the website on said infraction."

Police added, "No municipality or state agency will ever text message or email you regarding payment for any type of fine or infraction. Be alert and never share personal information through text or email."

The scam has somewhat amusing mistakes and it has been making the rounds across the state.

According to the scam, a "final notice," involving penalties from the "Connecticut Department of Vehicles," are to kick in on a specified date.

"Our records show that, as of today, you still have an outstanding traffic ticket," the text says. "In accordance with North connecticut (yes lower case) State Administrative Code 15C-16.003, if you do not complete payment by (a specific date) we will take the following actions."

Those "actions" are a "report to the DMV violation database," an order to "suspend you vehicle registration," an order to "suspend driving privileges for 30 days," and a "transfer to a toll booth and charge a 35 percent service fee (whatever that means)."

The text then declares, "You may be prosecuted and your credit score may be affected," while listing a "pay now" website.

Tickets in Connecticut are paid through the Judicial Department, not the DMV.

And a toll booth? Connecticut hasn't seen one of those since 1985.