The New York State Department of Motor Vehicles (DMV) is warning residents about a new text message scam that claims recipients have unpaid traffic tickets and must pay immediately to avoid penalties.
The fraudulent messages, which appear to come from the DMV, inform recipients they have a "final notice" for unpaid traffic violations and include a link to make payment. Officials say these texts are not from the DMV and are an attempt to steal personal and financial information.
How the Scam Works
The text messages typically read something like: "NY DMV: You have an unpaid traffic ticket with final notice. Pay now to avoid penalties: [malicious link]"
When recipients click the link, they're directed to a fake website designed to look like an official New York State payment portal. The site prompts users to enter personal information, credit card details, or other sensitive data that scammers can use for identity theft or financial fraud.
Official DMV Communication Methods
The New York DMV emphasizes that it does not send text messages about unpaid tickets. Official communications about traffic violations come via first-class mail to the address on your driver's license or vehicle registration.
"We want New Yorkers to be aware that the DMV does not send text messages about traffic tickets," said DMV Commissioner Mark J.F. Schroeder. "If you receive one of these texts, do not click any links or provide any information. Delete the message immediately."
What to Do If You Receive a Suspicious Text
If you receive one of these scam texts:
- Do not click any links in the message
- Do not reply to the message
- Do not provide any personal or financial information
- Report the message to the DMV and the Federal Trade Commission
- Delete the message
To check if you actually have any unpaid traffic tickets, visit the official New York DMV website directly (not through any link in a text message) or contact your local county traffic violations bureau.
Rise in Government Impersonation Scams
This scam is part of a growing trend of fraudsters impersonating government agencies. The Federal Trade Commission reports that Americans lost over $509 million to government impersonation scams in 2024 alone.
New York officials remind residents that legitimate government agencies will never demand immediate payment via gift cards, cryptocurrency, or wire transfers, and will not threaten arrest for unpaid fines in initial communications.