New Scam Alert: Fake DMV Texts Are Circulating

DMV Texting Scam

Scammers are getting more advanced and more realistic. The latest we’ve seen is the DMV texting scan. Front Royal members and people all across the United States are reporting fraudulent text messages pretending to come from the DMV. These messages are designed to steal your personal and financial information, and they seem legitimate at first glance. 

What’s Happening?

Fraudsters are sending out text messages that look like they’re from the Department of Motor Vehicles (DMV). These texts claim things like:

  • You have an unpaid toll or fine
  • There’s a problem with your registration or license
  • You must click a link to avoid additional fees or penalties

The messages may even reference case numbers or account details to appear legitimate. At first, they do look real. However: the DMV does not send payment requests or legal notices by text message, ever.

If you click the link, you’ll likely be directed to a fake website designed to steal your personal information like your driver’s license number, Social Security number, or credit card details. This scam is often referred to as phishing or smishing (SMS phishing).

Spot the Scam

  • The text urges immediate payment or threatens penalties.
  • It contains a link that looks suspicious or doesn’t end in a .gov address.
  • The tone is urgent or intimidating — trying to get you to act fast without thinking.
  • You’ve received the message even though you know you don’t owe anything.

Important: The DMV will not send payment requests or legal threats via text.

Protect Yourself

  • Do NOT click links in unsolicited texts claiming to be from the DMV or toll services.
  • Verify directly: If you actually are concerned about unpaid tolls or DMV issues, visit the official DMV website at www.dmv.virginia.gov or contact them directly.
  • Don’t respond to suspicious texts, not even to say “stop” or “unsubscribe.”
  • Enable spam filters on your phone and report scam texts to your carrier.

What To Do If You’ve Been Scammed

If you clicked a link or shared information:

Contact your financial institution immediately. Front Royal Credit Union members should call us at (540) 635-7133 so we can take action to protect your account and personal information. 

Monitor your accounts and credit reports for suspicious activity.

File a report with the Federal Trade Commission at reportfraud.ftc.gov.

If you provided personal information after clicking the link, consider placing a fraud alert or credit freeze with the major credit bureaus. To enable a credit freeze, you must contact each of the three major credit bureaus individually: Equifax, Experian, and TransUnion. You can do this online, by phone, or by mail. A credit freeze restricts access to your credit report, making it harder for potential creditors to open new accounts in your name. 

The three bureaus can be found here with information on how to place a freeze:

Stay Informed, Stay Safe

At Front Royal Credit Union, your security is our priority. We are here to help you stay one step ahead of scammers. If you have questions or concerns about this scam or any suspicious messages, reach out to our team right away.

Posted by Amanda Thomas in Fraud and Scams.