Phoenix Police Warn of New Photo Radar Payment Scam

Fake texts claim recipients owe money for a traffic camera or photo radar violation

Apr. 8, 2026 at 7:55pm

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An extreme close-up photograph of a cracked smartphone screen with a faint text message notification, lit by a harsh, direct camera flash against a pitch-black background, conceptually representing the stark, gritty, and investigative nature of a scam targeting unsuspecting residents.A recent wave of scam text messages targeting Phoenix residents exposes the risks of unsolicited communication about alleged traffic violations.Phoenix Today

The Phoenix Police Department is warning residents about fake text messages claiming they have a traffic camera or photo radar violation and need to submit payment. Police are urging people not to click any links or provide personal information, as these texts are scam attempts.

Why it matters

Photo enforcement cameras have recently been reintroduced in Phoenix due to patrol staffing shortages, speeding complaints, and crash data showing speed-related incidents. This scam aims to take advantage of residents who may be unfamiliar with the city's legitimate photo radar citation process.

The details

The fake texts may include links for recipients to submit payment for the alleged violation. However, legitimate citations from photo safety cameras in Phoenix come by mail from the Phoenix Municipal Court. The city does not request or collect photo radar payments via text, email, or phone call.

  • The Phoenix Police Department issued the scam warning on April 8, 2026.

The players

Phoenix Police Department

The local law enforcement agency that is warning residents about the photo radar payment scam.

City of Phoenix

The local government that recently reintroduced photo enforcement cameras in the city, mainly due to patrol staffing shortages, speeding complaints, and crash data.

Phoenix Municipal Court

The court that sends out legitimate citations from photo safety cameras in Phoenix, not via text, email, or phone.

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What they’re saying

“SCAM ALERT: The @CityofPhoenixAZ and Phoenix PD are aware of scam texts claiming recipients owe money for a traffic camera or photo radar violation, which may include links for payment.”

— Phoenix Police

“❌Do not click links ❌Do not provide personal information”

— Phoenix Police

What’s next

The Phoenix Police Department is urging residents to be vigilant and not fall victim to this scam. They advise people to avoid clicking any links or providing personal information if they receive such a text message.

The takeaway

This scam highlights the importance of being cautious when receiving unsolicited messages about alleged traffic violations, especially as cities like Phoenix reintroduce photo enforcement cameras. Residents should only trust official communications from the municipal court regarding any citations.