South Dakota Unified Judicial System Warns Public of Court Notice Scam

April 21, 2026

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PRESS RELEASE
For Immediate Release: April 21, 2026
Contact: Alisa Bousa, Public Information Officer, via text or 605.773.2031

South Dakota Unified Judicial System Warns Public of Court Notice Scam

PIERRE, S.D.—The South Dakota Unified Judicial System (UJS) is alerting the public to a recent scam involving fraudulent text messages claiming to be from a state or municipal court regarding unpaid traffic violations.

The messages direct recipients to scan a QR code or click a link to pay an alleged fine. Some of the messages reference violations such as unpaid tolls, traffic citations or court enforcement actions. These messages are NOT legitimate.

The South Dakota court system does not contact individuals via text message to demand payment for fines, fees or citations. Official court communications are conducted through formal written notices or in-person proceedings.

Additionally, South Dakota does not have toll roads, and any message referencing unpaid toll violations within the state is a clear indicator of fraud.

Members of the public who receive scam texts or emails are advised to:

Not click links or scan QR codes in unsolicited messages.
Not provide personal or financial information or send money.
Delete the message immediately.
Report the scam to the South Dakota Attorney General’s Consumer Protection Division or the Federal Trade Commission.

If you have concerns about a legitimate court matter, please contact your local Clerk of Courts office directly using official court contact information.

The Unified Judicial System encourages all residents to remain vigilant and share this information to help prevent others from becoming victims of fraud. To learn more, visit UJS’ web page about South Dakota court scams. View the fraudulent court notice.

About South Dakota Courts: The Unified Judicial System (UJS) consists of the Supreme Court, Circuit Courts and State Court Administrator’s Office. The Supreme Court is the state’s highest court and final decision maker on South Dakota law. The Circuit Courts are the state’s trial courts where criminal proceedings and civil litigation are handled. The State Court Administrator’s Office provides centralized administrative assistance and support services for the South Dakota judiciary. Learn more by visiting the UJS website.