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Franklin County President Judge Warns Of Reported Text Message Scam

Courts

July 30, 2026

CHAMBERSBURG, Pa. – Franklin County President Judge Shawn Meyers is advising the public to stay vigilant against a recently reported scam involving the Franklin County Court of Common Pleas.

The scam involves text messages that “spoof” or mimic the Franklin County Court of Common Pleas.

In the text, the recipient is advised they are being charged with ‘Failure to Comply with Sex Offender Registration Requirements.’ The spoof alleges that an arrest warrant has been issued and bail set for $12,000 to be paid through e-bonds digital bonding or bitcoin. Following receipt of the text, potential victims receive a phone call with instructions on how and where to remit payment to clear the charge.

The public is reminded that the Franklin County Courts or any Pennsylvania Court will never place calls or send letters and text messages soliciting payment by credit card, gift card, or any other means of electronic funds transfer for any reason.

Should you receive a letter from an individual claiming to be involved with or calling from the Franklin County Court of Common Pleas requesting money or payment of fines, fees or court costs, please do not provide any sensitive information or forms of payment of any kind.

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