“Scam Alert: We’ve received reports of spam texts pretending to be from the court and requesting payment,” Riverton police said on social media. “Please ignore these messages — the court will never ask for payment via text. If you receive one, do not respond or click any links.”
Scams are becoming increasingly common, according to police. Recently, American Fork police have warned about fraudulent vehicle repair offers taking place in parking lots around the community.
In April, the Utah State Tax Commission warned of a fraudulent letter requesting taxes to be paid.
The Utah Division of Consumer Protection has outlined the following ways to avoid scams in 2025:
Watch out for Common Scams
The division said that in 2024, they received a number of reports of scams involving “home remodeling and repair issues, solar sales, and auto purchases.” Having knowledge of trending scams can be a huge help in avoiding them from happening.
Be Wary of Unsolicited Communications
Online communication, unsolicited emails, messages, and calls from unknown sources should raise a red flag.
“If you receive a message claiming you’ve won a prize or that a company needs your personal information urgently, take a step back,” the DCP said. “Verify the source before responding or taking any action.”
Prioritize Secure Transactions
Make sure you’re purchasing from credible websites when shopping online. Look for secure payment options, read reviews, and double-check the URL for security certificates (the URL should begin with “https”). Avoid clicking on links from unverified sources.
Protect Your Personal Information
Scammers can use sneaky tactics to manipulate victims into giving out personal information.
“Be cautious about what you share on social media and regularly review your privacy settings,” the DCP said. “Avoid discussing sensitive information, such as your full birthdate or social security number, unless necessary. Verify that an organization is legitimate and has a business need for your information before you provide that information.”
Trust Your Gut
If something feels off about a communication or an offer, it’s important to trust that feeling, the DCP said. Question and scrutinize — don’t act impulsively. One very common tactic that scammers use is to create a sense of urgency to push you into making hasty decisions.
Monitor Your Financial Statements
Monitor your bank and credit card statements. Report any suspicious or unfamiliar transactions to your bank or credit institution immediately. You should also consider setting up alerts to be notified of certain transactions.
Report Scams
Report scams to the proper authorities, like the Federal Trade Commission (FTC) or your local consumer protection agency. Reporting helps raise awareness and can potentially prevent others from falling victim. You can file a complaint with the DCP here.
Educate Your Community
Share information about scams with your friends and family to help them avoid falling for scams. Discussing common scams with loved ones can help build a more informed community, making it harder for scammers to succeed.
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