A new wave of scam text messages pretending to be from state Departments of Motor Vehicles (DMVs) is sweeping across the United States, prompting a serious warning from the FBI. The agency is asking smartphone users nationwide to delete these texts immediately and avoid clicking any links, as the scam has grown alarmingly—reportedly increasing by over 700% in just the last month.
These fraudulent messages target both iPhone and Android users and are designed to steal sensitive information, such as credit card details or personal identification. The scam’s growing reach has put millions of Americans at risk.
Texts That Look Official—But Aren’t
The scam starts with a text message that appears to come from your state’s DMV. The message typically warns of an overdue toll or fine and includes a stern warning: failure to pay immediately could lead to suspension of your driver’s license or even possible jail time. A link is also included, urging recipients to respond and settle the issue urgently.
It may seem legitimate at first glance, but authorities confirm the entire message is a fraud. There is no unpaid fine, and the DMV isn’t contacting you. Instead, the link redirects you to a malicious site that tries to extract your personal and financial information.
FBI Warns: Malware Can Steal Your Data
“This is more than just a scam—it’s a way for criminals to install malware on your phone and access everything from saved passwords to credit card data,” said FBI Supervisory Special Agent David Palmer, based in Tennessee.
He emphasized that any unexpected message with a link—even if it appears to be from a government agency—should be treated with caution. Clicking such a link can open the door to cybercriminals who specialize in stealing identities and draining bank accounts.
Cybersecurity Experts Confirm the Threat
Experts in online security echo the FBI’s concern. According to Guardio, a cybersecurity company that helps detect phishing threats, these scam texts redirect victims to fake DMV websites. These counterfeit pages are often visually convincing, tricking people into entering sensitive information such as credit card numbers, driver’s license details, and home addresses.
“These websites are designed to mimic the look of government portals and deceive users into handing over their personal data,” a Guardio spokesperson explained in a statement to Forbes. “Once you submit your information, criminals can make unauthorized purchases or commit identity theft.”
State Officials Speak Out
State DMV officials are speaking up too, assuring citizens that they never ask for personal or financial information through text messages. Mark J.F. Schroeder, Commissioner of the New York State DMV, called the scam widespread and deeply troubling.
“These scammers flood phones with official-sounding messages, hoping someone will take the bait,” Schroeder said. “Let me be clear: the DMV does not send texts demanding payments or requesting sensitive details.”
States currently reporting high levels of scam activity include New York, Tennessee, California, Florida, Texas, Georgia, Illinois, and Washington, D.C.
What You Should Do If You Get One
If you receive one of these scam messages, here’s what the FBI and cybersecurity experts advise:
- Don’t click the link. It’s a trap designed to steal your data or infect your device.
- Don’t respond to the message or provide any personal information.
- Delete the text immediately.
- Report it to the FBI through their Internet Crime Complaint Center at ic3.gov.
Filing a report helps authorities identify and shut down the scam networks behind these fake messages.
A Growing Problem: Smishing Scams
This isn’t an isolated case. The DMV scam is part of a larger trend known as “smishing”—SMS-based phishing attacks. These scams exploit the fact that text messages often feel more personal and immediate than emails. By combining a sense of urgency with an official-looking sender, scammers are tricking more and more people into acting without thinking.
With smartphones now central to banking, shopping, and communication, these attacks can cause massive damage if users aren’t careful.
Simple Ways to Stay Safe
Protecting yourself doesn’t require technical expertise—just a little caution. Experts recommend these basic steps:
- Be skeptical of any unexpected message asking for money or personal details—even if it looks official.
- Never click on links from unknown sources.
- Visit the official DMV website or call their verified number if you’re unsure.
- Use antivirus or security software on your phone to help detect threats.
- Turn on two-factor authentication for your accounts when available.
