Bismarck, N.D. – The Bismarck Police Department issued a warning on April 21 after receiving numerous reports of a scam text message claiming recipients have an outstanding traffic violation involving their vehicle in North Dakota.
Officials said the message is not legitimate and is part of a scam designed to trick individuals into sharing personal information or clicking malicious links. According to the department, the image used in the message was originally sent to one of its officers in an attempt to scam them, though the officer did not fall victim.
Authorities identified several clear signs indicating the message is fraudulent. The state seal displayed in the text is for South Dakota, not North Dakota. Additionally, the listed address is in Fargo, while the county referenced does not match, and there are noticeable grammatical errors in the address.
Police explained that scammers often rely on fear and urgency to pressure individuals into acting quickly without verifying the information. These messages are crafted to appear serious in order to prompt immediate responses.
The department urged the public not to click on any links, including QR codes, or provide personal information if they receive such messages. Anyone who receives the scam text is encouraged to report it to their local law enforcement agency and, if applicable, the agency being impersonated.
Officials also advised residents to remain alert and share the warning with others to help prevent additional victims.
