Online Threat Alerts (OTA) - Alerting you to scams and frauds.

Louisiana DMV Scam Text - How to Protect Yourself
Louisiana DMV Scam Text - How to Protect Yourself

A recurring, fraudulent text message scam is targeting Louisiana residents, falsely claiming to be from the "DMV" (actually the Louisiana Office of Motor Vehicles or OMV) and alleging unpaid traffic fines. The messages threaten license suspension or legal action to steal personal information and money. Do not click links, do not reply, and delete immediately.

Details of the Scam

  • The Threat: Messages claim you have unpaid traffic tickets or fines, threatening suspension of registration or driver’s license.
  • The Goal: To trick you into clicking a link (e.g., fraudulent sites like expresslane.brg-tnyh) to enter personal/banking information.
  • Key Indicators: The messages often use "DMV" (not OMV) or reference non-existent entities, and are sent from unsolicited, anonymous numbers.
  • Official Contact: The only official OMV website is expresslane.org. The OMV does not send text messages demanding payment.

What to Do

  • Delete & Ignore: Do not respond to or click any links in the text.
  • Report: Report the scam to the Federal Trade Commission (FTC) at reportfraud.ftc.gov.
  • Verify: Check for legitimate tickets or fees directly through the official Louisiana OMV website or by contacting them directly.
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