Authorities Alert Public to Text Scams Targeting Unpaid Ticket Claims
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A growing number of states are alerting their citizens about a new wave of scams where individuals receive deceptive text messages claiming to be from state motor vehicle departments. these messages often threaten license suspension for unpaid traffic fines.
“Scammers have clearly adapted their tactics,” noted North Carolina Attorney General Jeff Jackson in a consumer advisory. He referenced an earlier scam that involved fake toll payment requests that had gained traction last year.
From 2020 to 2024, cybercrime has cost Americans over $50 billion, with last year’s losses alone reaching $16.6 billion—a important increase of 33% compared to the previous year.The FBI identified countries like Hong Kong adn Mexico as major hubs for these fraudulent wire transactions. Interestingly, the toll scam accounted for around $129,624 in losses from nearly 60,000 complaints filed last year.
The Federal Trade Commission highlighted that all forms of text-based scams resulted in thefts totaling $470 million last year—five times more then what was reported back in 2020.
Warnings regarding these toll-related scams have been issued across various states including Alabama and New York. State officials are actively working together with law enforcement agencies to inform residents about these fraudulent activities.
The Arizona Department of Transportation recently cautioned locals against misleading texts claiming they owed money for unpaid tickets—messages falsely attributed to ADOT or even a fictitious “Arizona Ministry of Communications.” p >
The warning emphasized that recipients should disregard any threats regarding registration suspensions or credit damage due to non-payment since ADOT does not collect fines via text messaging; they also pointed out discrepancies like using ‘DMV’ instead of ‘MVD’ (Motor Vehicle Division). p >
In Georgia, residents have received similar deceptive texts supposedly coming from the state’s DMV—a term not used there at all! “If you get such messages, treat them as scams,” advised Angelique McClendon from Georgia’s department of Driver Services. p >
Pennsylvania’s Attorney General David Sunday issued an alert after receiving multiple reports about scammers impersonating state DMV officials. “These texts frequently enough include links meant to harvest personal data or intimidate victims into making payments,” he warned while reminding consumers never click on suspicious links and always verify any communication with official sources first. p >
Some scammers create urgency by imposing deadlines for payments; South Dakota’s Public Safety Department recently alerted citizens about fake final notices demanding immediate action regarding outstanding tickets under threat of legal consequences.
Tennessee authorities also flagged similar issues where some messages contained links leading users to counterfeit websites mimicking official government pages—definitely not something you want! “Don’t engage with unexpected texts,” they advised; scammers thrive on speedy reactions! P >
- Avoid responding or using contact details provided in suspicious messages; li >
- Never share personal info based on unsolicited communications; li >
- Always confirm legitimacy before sending any payments; li >
- Avoid clicking attachments or links within dubious texts; li >
- If you encounter scam attempts report them immediately and delete those pesky messages! Li >
- Spread awareness among friends & family members regarding these deceitful practices! Li >
ul >You can file FTC complaints online at ReportFraud.ftc.gov P >
strong > Listen below for today’s briefing or visit our site for further insights: strong > P >
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