BOISE, ID — As scam tactics become more sophisticated, AAA is urging Idahoans to remain cautious about unsolicited messages claiming unpaid tickets or urgent legal issues, especially those requesting credit card or banking information.

“Please treat a text or phone call regarding an unpaid ticket with a high degree of skepticism,” said Matthew Conde, public affairs director for AAA Idaho. “Scammers use fear-based tactics to gain compliance, and every day, good people become victims of fraud and identity theft.”

According to AAA, official communication regarding unresolved legal matters will come through the mail—not text or phone calls—and legitimate agencies will never request payment or sensitive financial data through those channels.

Conde also warned that scammers sometimes impersonate law enforcement or claim a family member is in jail and in need of immediate financial assistance. These schemes often rely on emotional manipulation and urgency.

To help prevent identity theft and financial fraud, AAA recommends using credit monitoring services and regularly reviewing financial statements. If suspicious activity is found, individuals should contact their financial institution and report the issue to local law enforcement.

AAA members can access complimentary identity theft protection through Experian’s Essential ID service. More information is available at AAA.com/idtheft.