Authorities across several U.S. states are warning residents to be on high alert after a wave of scam text messages claiming to come from state Departments of Motor Vehicles (DMVs) surged in recent weeks. The messages demand payment for a fake “outstanding toll” or traffic violation, threatening penalties if the recipient fails to act.
States including New York, Illinois, Florida, New Jersey, Texas, and California have issued official advisories alerting residents to the scam, which has intensified throughout May. Officials emphasize that DMVs do not send unsolicited text messages requesting payment or personal information.
“These scammers flood phones with texts, hoping to trick unsuspecting New Yorkers into handing over their personal information,” said New York DMV Commissioner Mark J.F. Schroeder. “DMV will not send you texts asking for your personal information.”
The scam texts typically warn that if a supposed outstanding toll or fine is not paid immediately, the recipient could face legal consequences such as vehicle registration suspension, driving privilege loss, or even prosecution. Some messages also falsely threaten damage to the recipient’s credit score.
In New Jersey, for example, one fraudulent message stated: “New Jersey State Department of Motor Vehicles (DMV). Final Notice: Enforcement Penalties Begin on May 30… Please pay immediately before enforcement to avoid license dispensation and further legal disputes.” Messages often include links mimicking official government websites, using phrases like “ezpassnj” or ending in “.gov” to appear credible.
Illinois Secretary of State Alexi Giannoulias issued a stern warning, emphasizing that the state’s DMV only uses text messages to confirm appointment details. “Phishing scams are an increasingly prevalent threat, seeking to cheat Illinoisans out of their personal information and hard-earned money,” he said.
Florida’s DMV has taken proactive steps by launching a dedicated webpage warning residents not to respond to text messages demanding payment, stating clearly: “The FLDMV will never contact you via text message demanding payment or threatening suspension or arrest.”
Local law enforcement agencies, including the Warren Township Police Department in New Jersey, have also used social media to alert communities about the scam’s growing reach.
Officials urge anyone receiving such messages to avoid clicking on suspicious links and report the texts by forwarding them to 7726 (SPAM), a service that helps wireless providers block fraudulent messages.
The Federal Trade Commission also advises consumers to delete the messages and monitor their financial accounts for signs of identity theft or fraud.
