Missouri Highway Patrol Warns of Scam Text Messages

Fraudulent texts claim unresolved traffic citations and insurance rate hikes to steal personal info and money

Apr. 3, 2026 at 8:53pm

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An extreme close-up photograph of a cracked smartphone screen reflecting a bright, harsh camera flash, conceptually representing the sudden, gritty, and investigative nature of a text message scam targeting Missouri drivers.A sudden, stark image of a damaged phone screen exposes the harsh reality of a deceptive text message scam targeting Missouri drivers.Jefferson City Today

The Missouri State Highway Patrol is alerting residents across the state to be on the lookout for a surge in scam text messages designed to steal personal information and money. The messages appear to be official notices from state agencies or the court system, claiming the recipient has an unresolved traffic citation or faces auto insurance rate hikes and legal action.

Why it matters

These fraudulent text messages are part of an ongoing trend of phone and online scams targeting consumers. Authorities are concerned about the potential for victims to lose money and have their personal data compromised through these deceptive tactics.

The details

The scam texts include fake case numbers and deadlines to pay fines or 'settlements' through provided links. State troopers emphasize these messages are entirely fraudulent and urge residents to ignore and delete them. Law enforcement is advising victims to contact their local police and financial institutions immediately if they believe they have lost money to the scam.

  • The Missouri State Highway Patrol issued the warning on April 3, 2026.

The players

Missouri State Highway Patrol

The state law enforcement agency that issued the warning about the fraudulent text message scam targeting Missouri residents.

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What they’re saying

“If you have received one of the following texts, please ignore and delete the message. Don't fall victim to online/phone scams.”

— Missouri State Highway Patrol

What’s next

Residents who believe they have lost money to the scam are encouraged to contact their local law enforcement agency and their financial institution immediately.

The takeaway

This scam is part of an ongoing problem of phone and online fraud targeting consumers with deceptive tactics. Staying vigilant and ignoring suspicious messages is crucial to avoid falling victim and having personal information or funds compromised.