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Heads-up: a convincing new scam is circulating.
You may receive an unsolicited text claiming to be from your state’s DMV. The text warns of an “overdue traffic ticket” and demands immediate payment via a link.
These messages often threaten to suspend your license, registration, or report you to a “DMV violation database,” and may add a hefty 35% “service fee”. Some even warn of criminal prosecution or credit damage—but it’s all a scam, designed to steal your money or personal information.
How to protect yourself:
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Don’t click links or respond. Scammers thrive on creating a sense of urgency.
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Verify through official sources. If you’re concerned, contact your DMV or toll agency using a number or website you know is legitimate—not the one provided in the text.
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Report and delete the scam. Use your phone’s “report junk” feature, forward the message to 7726 (SPAM), and delete it.
This is not an isolated issue. Federal Trade Commission (FTC) data shows that text-based scams—sometimes called “smishing”—have surged.
Many victims lose significant funds or suffer identity theft, often without realizing they’ve been targeted. The FBI and numerous state agencies are urging the public to stay alert.
Want the full breakdown? Check out the FTC’s full warning on how these scams work and what to do: Read the FTC alert here.
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