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

Indiana BMV Text Scam
Indiana BMV Text Scam

The Indiana Bureau of Motor Vehicles (BMV) is warning customers of a fraudulent text message scam designed to steal personal and financial information. These messages often claim the recipient has "outstanding traffic violations" or "unpaid tolls" and threaten immediate penalties such as license suspension or vehicle registration revocation.

About the Scam

  • The BMV never texts for payments: The agency explicitly states it does not send SMS text messages regarding outstanding penalties, traffic violations, or toll payments.
  • Sophisticated Mimicry: Scammers use the BMV’s official colors, graphics, and even cite real Indiana Code to make their fake websites look legitimate.
  • Urgency Tactics: Messages often use high-pressure language, such as "final notice," to scare recipients into acting quickly.
  • Shift from "DMV" to "BMV": While earlier versions of this scam used the term "DMV," newer versions specifically reference the "BMV" to target Indiana residents more effectively.

Red Flags

  • Unofficial URLs: Legitimate Indiana government websites always end in .gov (e.g., in.gov/bmv). Scam links often use variations like ".vip," ".today," or ".live".
  • Unexpected Payment Requests: The BMV does not collect the specific types of fees mentioned in these scam texts.
  • Random Sender Numbers: Messages may come from international numbers or unofficial email addresses instead of a verified government shortcode.

If You Receive a Text

  1. Do not click any links and do not respond to the message.
  2. Delete the message immediately and block the sender's number.
  3. Verify your account status only through the official myBMV portal or by calling the BMV Customer Contact Center at 888-692-6841.
  4. Report the scam:

If you already provided financial information, contact your bank immediately to freeze your accounts and monitor for unauthorized activity.

waiting