HARRISBURG — Pennsylvania Supreme Court Chief Justice Debra Todd is advising the public to stay vigilant against a recently reported text message scam involving the court.

The scam involves text messages that “spoof” or mimic the Pennsylvania Supreme Court website, according to a release from the justice’s office. The spoof text alleges the Supreme Court has scheduled a “mandatory court appearance for traffic offenses,” lists court officials as contacts and advises the receiver of the text to appear in court on a specific date and time.

The text goes on to outline fictitious actions and penalties that will be taken if fines and fees associated with the traffic offense are not paid through link or URL provided in the text.

Residents are reminded that the Supreme Court of Pennsylvania or the Pennsylvania Courts will never place calls or send text messages soliciting payment by credit card, gift card or any other means of electronic funds transfer for any reason.

Should you receive a text message from a number or individual claiming to be involved with or calling from the Supreme Court of Pennsylvania Court requesting money or payment of fines, fees or court costs, the courts ask you do not provide any sensitive information or payment of any kind.

Anyone receiving texts of this nature is encouraged to hang up immediately and contact state and local police as well as the Pennsylvania Office of Attorney General, Bureau of Consumer Protection at 800-441-2555 or scams@attorneygeneral.gov.