MAIL SCAM

Ohio Attorney General Dave Yost has warned about a scam involving messages that claim recipients owe unpaid parking or toll fines and must pay immediately or appear in court.

The messages include what appears to be an official court document and contain a QR code directing recipients to a website to pay the supposed fine. However, the messages are fraudulent and are not connected to the court system.

Instead, the “notice” directs recipients to a website whose domain have been traced to entities overseas. Consumers should also remember that scanning a QR code created by a scammer could expose a phone or computer to malware or other security threats.

How to protect yourself
Ohioans who receive suspicious legal notices should take the following precautions:

• Do not scan QR codes or links on unexpected legal notices.
• Verify the information independently by directly contacting the court using an official phone number or website.
• Look for warning signs, such as incorrect seals, unfamiliar website addresses or unusual instructions.

Ohioans who believe they have received a scam notice can file a complaint with the Ohio Attorney General’s Consumer Protection Section at www.OhioProtects.org or by calling 800-282-0515.

JURY SCAM

The Lucas County Court of Common Pleas is reminding residents to be aware of fraudulent phone calls regarding jury service. It is not the practice of the Court to contact individuals by phone to request payment or communicate in a high-pressure manner related to jury service matters. Phone calls urging immediate action to avoid penalties are not legitimate.

Residents who receive a suspicious call or message are advised to hang up and contact the Court directly to verify the communication. Court staff are available to assist with any questions regarding jury service. If you have concerns, please contact the Lucas County Court of Common Pleas at 419-213-4779.