Vienna Police Warn Against Red Light Camera Scam

Vienna Police are warning residents against a scam in which callers claim they're overdue on a summons for a red light violation captured by camera surveillance.

The scam was spurred by a piece of 2011 general assembly legislation, which allowed law enforcement agencies in certain jurisdictions to use photo red light cameras.

But while Vienna once had a video red light system, the town discontinued it when the state initially banned them several years ago, Officer Bill Murray said. But the new requirements will likely prohibit the town from re-introducing the system, Murray said

"The population guidelines limit the feasibility for us to maintain a system," Murray said. "We would probably only be able to get cameras for one, maybe two intersections. We would then need to staff the position as all the summonses are reviewed prior to issuance and it might not be possible due to monetary issues.

But many residents may not realize the town's system ever ceased to exist, Murray said.

Callers tell residents they have either a photo RADAR or photo red light summons which has yet to be paid. (Virginia does not currently allow for the use of photo RADAR, Murray said). They then
say if the summons is not paid quickly, a warrant will be issued for their arrest. The caller offers to have the resident take care of the payment over the phone using a credit card number.

In a statement, Murray said residents should never give out credit card or personal information unless they initiate the call themselves.  If residents are unsure if the request is valid, they should ask the caller to send the information by mail, or, hang up and contact the agency or organization in question.

This article has been updated.