The Fairfax County Police Department warned residents on Mar. 24 about a text message scam that falsely claims to be from Virginia toll services.
According to the police, people have reported receiving fraudulent texts stating they owe unpaid toll charges and must pay immediately to avoid penalties or legal action. The messages often claim to come from the General District Court for Fairfax County in an attempt to appear legitimate and pressure recipients into responding.
Authorities said these messages typically include a link or QR code directing users to a website designed to steal personal or financial information. “These messages are not legitimate. Scammers frequently impersonate government agencies or transportation services to create a sense of urgency and pressure victims into making payments or providing sensitive information,” the department said.
The police advised residents not to click on any links, scan QR codes in suspicious messages, or share personal or financial information through text messages. Instead, they recommend verifying any such claims directly through official websites, deleting suspicious texts, and reporting them as spam.
Residents who believe they may have provided bank account details are urged by police to notify their banks immediately. Those who think they have been victims of identity theft or another scam should file a report with the Financial Crimes Unit through its online portal.
The department also encouraged community members to register their cameras with Connect Fairfax County as part of efforts to help solve crimes and support investigations.
