Scammers are now pretending to be your local Department of Motor Vehicles (DMV) — and their latest scheme is hitting inboxes fast.
If you get a text claiming you missed a payment or need to verify your driver’s license or vehicle registration, pause before you click. These messages are often part of a phishing scam designed to steal your personal or financial information.
What the DMV Scam Looks Like
These scam texts often mention things like:
- “License suspension notice”
- “Final registration reminder”
- “Action required for your DMV profile”
They may include a link to a lookalike DMV site, asking you to enter sensitive details like your Social Security number, credit card info, or login credentials.
Example scam text:
“Department of Vehicles (DMV) final notice: Enforcement penalties have begun. Our records show you have an outstanding traffic ticket. If you do not complete payment immediately, we will take the following actions: 1. Report to the DMV violation database 2. Suspend your vehicle registration 3. Suspend driving privileges for 30 days 4. Transfer to a toll booth and charge a 35% service fee 5. You may be prosecuted and your credit score will be affected. Pay now: https://dot.gov-ufk.us/pay.”
This is a classic phishing tactic designed to create a sense of urgency and scare you into paying.
How to Protect Yourself
- Never Click Unknown Links: Legitimate DMV agencies typically do not send texts with clickable links to resolve urgent issues.
- Don’t Share Personal Information: If the message asks for payment or verification through a link, it’s likely a scam.
- Check Directly with Your DMV: Go to your state’s official DMV website or call their customer service for verification.
- Report the Scam: Forward the text to 7726 (SPAM) and delete it.
Scammers rely on fear and urgency to trick people. The best defense is knowing what to look for. Always take a moment to verify before you act and remember, your DMV won’t threaten you with suspension via text.
