> ## Content Index
> Fetch the complete content index at: https://www.ipswich.co.uk/llms.txt
> Use this file to discover other available public pages before exploring further.

# Residents warned of parking fine text message scam
- URL: https://www.ipswich.co.uk/residents-warned-of-parking-fine-text-message-scam/
- Published: 2024-09-16T04:00:00.000Z
- Updated: 2026-03-16T15:35:27.000Z
- Description: Suffolk Trading Standards is alerting Ipswich residents to a new scam involving fake parking fine text messages purporting to be from the local council. Officials are urging people not to click any links in these messages.
- Author: Oliver Rouane-Williams
- Tags: News, Scams & Consumer Safety, #article, Suffolk Trading Standards, #Import 2026-03-16 14:46

**The big picture:** [Suffolk Trading Standards](https://www.ipswich.co.uk/tag/suffolk-trading-standards/) has received multiple reports of text messages claiming to be from the "local council" demanding payment for parking fines. These messages are fraudulent and lead to a convincing fake government website that attempts to steal personal data.

![Poster about the parking fine message scam](https://storage.ghost.io/c/29/1e/291e4b7f-e551-4458-b546-61963954b22f/content/images/2026/03/1726148843-parking-scam.png)

If you receive an unexpected text about a parking fine, do not click any links or provide information (Suffolk Trading Standards)

**Why it matters:** This scam could trick residents into sharing sensitive personal and financial information with criminals.

**How it works:**

- The scam texts contain a link to a counterfeit government website
- The fake site uses official logos, branding and fonts to appear legitimate
- It requests personal details like name, address, and payment information

**What to do:** Officials advise residents to:

- Never click links in unexpected text messages about fines
- Forward suspicious texts to 7726 to report them (it's free)
- Take screenshots and email them to [report@phishing.gov.uk](mailto:report@phishing.gov.uk)

**The bottom line:** If you receive an unexpected text about a parking fine, do not click any links or provide information. Report it to help protect others from falling victim to this scam.

### Independent local journalism is expensive to produce

It's free for you to read thanks to the generous support of our partners.