PPA issues warning about fraudulent text messages requesting payment for unpaid parking tickets

PHILADELPHIA (KYW Newsradio) — The Philadelphia Parking Authority is warning the public about a new scam designed to trick people into giving criminals money or information they shouldn't have access to.

People are receiving text messages from an entity falsely claiming to be the PPA. The message says the recipient owes money for unpaid parking tickets and includes a request to click a link to make payment, according to Deputy Executive Director Gabe Roberts. The link points to a malicious website not affiliated with the PPA.

"If it happens — number one: Don’t click the link," Roberts said. "And don’t respond to any of the text messages if you are one of the unlucky folks to receive one."

Roberts says anyone who wants to see if they truly owe payment on any outstanding parking tickets may do so online at www.philapark.org (under "Tickets," enter the violation number and license plate number) or by calling the Parking Violations Branch directly at 888-591-3636.

The PPA lists four official methods to make payments, and text messages are not among them:

1. Online: www.philapark.org/violations
2. By phone: 888-591-3636
3. By mail: City of Philadelphia, Parking Violations Branch, P.O. Box 41818 Philadelphia, PA 19101
4. In person: 913 Filbert Street, Philadelphia, PA 19107

Roberts says, if you believe you are a victim of the scam, you can reach out to the PPA directly.