Urgent Warning-Speed Cam Text Scam Spreading Through Capital Region

Another scam is circulating throughout the Capital Region. If you were speeding on any road in New York State, you might think that this text is legit. The Saratoga County and Schenectady County Sheriff's Offices are both reporting this new text scam.

In this latest scam, a text appears on your phone accusing you of speeding in "New York". It claims that a speed camera has recorded you "exceeding the speed limit". It states that the fine remains unpaid, and if you don't settle it within 3 days, you will be unable to pass the annual inspection.

There is a link in this text that encourages you to click it to pay the fine. DO NOT click the link. This is how the scammers try to obtain your personal information.

The Saratoga County Sheriff's Office says that they are aware of this text and warn that it is fraudulent. They urge anyone receiving this text message not to click any links and to delete it.

Read More: Saratoga County Sheriff Warns of Credit Card Scam

Another recent scam that is circulating is a call that involves a plea to help a loved one who has been arrested.

The Columbia County Sheriff's office is warning that the call usually sounds urgent and official. The person on the line claims they are with the Sheriff’s Office and says your loved one can be released if you pay right away.

They may mention extra fees for things like monitoring or tracking to make it sound legitimate. Then they tell you to send money through gift cards or apps like Venmo or Apple Pay.

It is a lie, and it is designed to catch people in a moment of fear.

If you have received a call or a text that involves local law enforcement, do not click on any links or respond to the urgent plea and contact the authorities.

Stay informed about a recent scam in the Capital Region that targets drivers with false speeding fines and how to avoid falling victim.