04/23/2026
Scam Alert!
Scam Alert:
Concord, NH – Attorney General John M. Formella is warning New Hampshire residents about an ongoing wave of scam text messages falsely claiming to be from New Hampshire Courts, including a new variation that uses QR codes to direct recipients to fraudulent payment sites.
These messages are fraudulent. The New Hampshire Judicial Branch does not send QR codes in text messages, does not solicit payments via text, and does not request payment through links or codes sent by text message. Some of these scam messages contain inaccurate or outdated references to the court system, such as “District Court, Traffic Division.” New Hampshire does not have a “traffic division,” and motor vehicle matters are handled through the Circuit Court system.
Be cautious of messages that:
- Claim to be from a court or government agency and demand immediate payment
- Include QR codes, links, or attachments directing you to unfamiliar websites
- Threaten arrest, license suspension, or additional penalties for nonpayment
- Contain generic greetings or lack specific, verifiable case information
If you receive one of these messages:
- Do not scan any QR codes or click on links
- Do not provide personal or financial information
- Do not send payment
- Delete the message
Scammers often use official-looking language, documents, and now QR codes to create a sense of urgency and fear. Verify any unexpected communication before taking action.
If you are concerned about the status of a court case, contact the appropriate court directly using official contact information from the NH Judicial Branch website: www.courts.nh.gov.
