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ARIZONA NEWS

Scammers already sending fake texts about new Phoenix speed cameras

Authorities are warning Valley residents to stay alert as scammers look to capitalize on the recent activation of photo safety cameras.

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PHOENIX — Authorities are warning Valley residents to stay alert as scammers look to capitalize on the recent activation of photo safety cameras across the region.

The Phoenix Police Department reported an uptick in fraudulent texts, phone calls and emails demanding payment for alleged speeding violations. The surge in scam reports follows the rollout of photo enforcement cameras in 17 Valley locations.

According to police, the messages typically claim the recipient was caught speeding and must pay a fine immediately via a link included in the message.

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Police officials clarified that the department never contacts individuals about photo enforcement violations through digital means or over the phone.

“Legitimate citations are issued only by mail from the Phoenix Municipal Court,” the department said in a statement.

Police are advising anyone who receives a suspicious message to report it as spam to their service provider and to avoid opening any links, which can often lead to phishing websites designed to steal credit card information or personal data.

Residents who believe they have fallen victim to the scam or have lost money to the fraudulent demands are encouraged to file a report online at the City of Phoenix website or by calling the department’s non-emergency line at 602-262-6151.

David Veenstra KTAR.com editor

David Veenstra is a web content editor and writer for ArizonaSports.com and KTAR.com. Prior to joining Arizona Sports and KTAR, he graduated from the University of Oregon for his bachelor’s degree in journalism and Arizona State University for his… Read more

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