Don’t Click! That ‘Unpaid Traffic Ticket’ Text Isn’t From the Michigan SOS

Michigan residents are being alerted to a new scam which is similar to ones that targeted Michiganders a few years back.

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About 18-24 months ago Michigan residents reported getting text messages from toll road authorities saying that the driver owes money for unpaid tolls and that a $50 late fee is looming if the balance is not settled immediately.

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The latest scam makes the person receiving the text message on their phone believe that it's coming to them from the Michigan Secretary of State.

This new scam text message reads as follows:

"Michigan Secretary of State Office enforcement notice: unpaid traffic ticket. Enforcement proceedings will begin on March 19, 2026 if the fine is not paid."

 

It goes on and threatens driving violations and includes a link to what appears to be an official payment portal.

This tactic is done on purpose because the urgency created by the message is likely to cause the person to panic and not think clearly.

When that happens scammers are able to take advantage of people and steal their money and information.

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Scammers are always changing their tactics to try and rip you off but there are some basic things you can keep in mind to try and avoid falling victim yourself.

The Michigan Secretary of State recommends doing the following to avoid texting scams (smishing).

• Never click links
• Never download attachments
• Never provide personal/financial information in response to unexpected texts.

Instead, you should delete the message, block the sender, and verify legitimate inquiries by calling companies directly using official websites, not the number in the text.