Fake 36th District Court toll texts scam; court offers amnesty

March 3, 2026

Michigan Attorney General Dana Nessel has issued a warning about a text message scam falsely claiming to be from Detroit's 36th District Court regarding toll violations. The fraudulent messages include fake court notices with QR codes that direct recipients to deceptive websites designed to steal personal and financial information, and even reference a non-existent judge named John Smith. This "smishing" scam uses urgent language and threats to pressure people into making immediate payments through illegitimate channels.

Who is affected

Michigan residents receiving the fraudulent text messages
36th District Court in Wayne County (whose name is being impersonated)
Michigan Attorney General Dana Nessel's office
People with outstanding fines at 36th District Court (who are eligible for the real amnesty program)
Members of the community with court debt

What action is being taken

The 36th District Court is running a courtwide amnesty program from March 9 through April 2
The Attorney General's office is warning residents about the scam
Late fees, penalties, and warrant costs are being waived during the amnesty period upon payment of original fines

Why it matters

This matters because scammers are exploiting the authority and credibility of official government institutions to steal money and personal information from residents. The scam creates confusion during a time when the actual court is offering legitimate financial relief through its amnesty program. It also demonstrates how fraudsters use fear tactics and impersonate legitimate agencies to pressure victims into making hasty financial decisions, potentially causing both financial loss and identity theft for those who fall victim.

What's next

No explicit next steps stated in the article

Read full article from source: bridgedetroit.com