BBB Scam Alert: Text Message DMV Scams
Information courtesy of | Better Business Bureau
BBB Scam Alert: Text message phishing scam impersonates Texas DMV and law enforcement
Law enforcement agencies across the state are warning residents about text message scams impersonating the Texas Department of Motor Vehicles (DMV). Better Business Bureau Heart of Texas (BBB) has received several reports of these scams. These fake texts claim you have an outstanding traffic ticket and may face major penalties if you don’t pay up.
How the scam works
You receive what looks like an urgent text message from the DMV. The text states this is your “final notice” that you have an outstanding traffic ticket and that it must be paid soon to avoid penalties. The text outlines various serious penalties like being reported to the DMV violation database, suspension of your vehicle registration, suspended driving privileges, prosecution, damaged credit scores, paying additional fees, and more.
BBB has received several reports of these text message scams to BBB Scam Tracker. One consumer shared this message:
Texas Department of Motor Vehicles final notice: According to our records, the traffic violation associated with your account remains unresolved. This is a final reminder that payment has not been received. In accordance with Texas Code Title 9 Motor Vehicles section 9-18-2-7, if full payment is not submitted by February 25, 2026, the following enforcement actions will be initiated….
BBB has tips to help you avoid text message phishing scams:
- Verify your outstanding traffic tickets on your own. Contact your local police department or call the DMV directly.
- Don’t click on links or download files that are unexpectedly texted to you. Scammers can disguise links to make them look legitimate. Even if the link’s domain looks real, take steps to identify whether it is a safe link
- Block and report the number and delete the message. Some smartphones and cell phone providers allow you to report phone numbers as spam. Be sure to delete the message.
- Never give out your personal information to someone you don’t know. Phishing scams often ask you to provide personal information like your birthdate, Social Security number, and more. Never provide this information to someone who contacts you out of the blue.
If you receive a text message impersonating your state’s DMV, report it to BBB Scam Tracker to warn others. In addition, file a report with the FBI Internet Crime Complaint Center (IC3). Reporting scams helps consumers become aware of scams and helps law enforcement track down scammers.
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