The City of Milwaukee Department of Public Works is alerting residents to a scam involving fraudulent parking citation messages. According to the city's news release, some individuals have received text messages claiming to be from the City, demanding immediate payment for parking tickets and warning of additional fees if ignored. However, officials clarify that the City does not issue parking citations or payment requests via text message.
Scammers are increasingly using familiar tactics to target individuals for quick cash, and this scheme is no different. It typically includes an unauthorized link, which the Department of Public Works identifies as a central feature of the scam. Residents who receive these messages are strongly advised not to click on any links or share personal information. For questions about legitimate parking citations, individuals should contact the City directly at 414-344-0840.
As a public service reminder, the Department of Public Works has outlined how official parking citations are issued. Legitimate tickets will either be placed directly on a vehicle’s windshield or sent by mail to the registered address. Therefore, Milwaukee vehicle owners who receive unexpected text messages about parking fines should treat them with caution, as they are likely part of a scam.
Those who suspect they've been ensnared by this scam should promptly make tracks to report it to the Milwaukee Police Department.
