Scammers are getting smarter, but we’re Here to Help you stay one step ahead. Across Florida, residents are receiving phone calls and text messages claiming they have an unpaid traffic ticket that must be paid immediately.

These scams are designed to trick you into sharing personal information such as your credit card number and Social Security number. If you have a traffic citation, scammers may use the publicly available information from your citation like your address, date of birth and driver license number to trick you into believing them.

Here’s what you need to know: my office will never send a text or call you demanding payment for a traffic ticket. If you owe a fine, you’ll receive an official notice by mail, or you can look it up yourself on our secure website at www.mypalmbeachclerk.com/traffic.

If you get a suspicious text or email, do not click on any links. Delete the message right away. Never share personal or financial information with anyone claiming to represent our office or law enforcement by phone, text or email.

If you’re unsure whether a message is real, contact my office directly. We’re happy to confirm it for you. When in doubt, don’t give your information out.

We’re Here to Help you stay informed and secure. Remember: if something feels off, it probably is. Help us keep your information, and your wallet, safe.

Mike Caruso, Clerk of the Circuit Court & Comptroller