Any "Final Notice" message from the DMV received via text or email is a fraudulent phishing scam designed to steal your personal and financial information. Official government agencies, including the DMV (or RMV/DVS in some states), will never demand payment for traffic tickets or toll violations through unsolicited text messages.
Signs of the Scam
- The Message: Usually claims you have an "outstanding traffic ticket" or "unpaid toll" and threatens immediate license suspension or registration voidance if you don't pay.
- Legal Jargon: Many of these texts falsely cite "State Administrative Code 15C-16.003" to sound official, though this code is often non-existent or irrelevant.
- Malicious Links: The text includes a link to a website that may look real but is hosted on a suspicious domain (e.g., ending in
.top, .win, or .xyz instead of .gov). - Sender Details: The message often comes from a random, personal phone number or an international number (e.g., starting with +63).
Protect Yourself
- Do Not Click: Avoid clicking any links or replying "Y" to these messages, as this confirms your number is active to scammers.
- Verify Directly: If you are concerned about your driving status, visit your state's official DMV website directly (e.g., California DMV, New York DMV, or Texas DMV) or call their verified customer service line.
- Report the Message:
- Delete and Block: Once reported, delete the message and block the sender.
Colorado DMV (.gov) +10
If you have already clicked the link or provided financial information, immediately contact your bank to secure your accounts and monitor your credit report for unauthorized activity.