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

NC DMV Scam Text Messages - How to Protect Yourself
NC DMV Scam Text Messages - How to Protect Yourself

The North Carolina Division of Motor Vehicles (NCDMV) and the N.C. Department of Transportation (NCDOT) have issued urgent warnings regarding a surge in fraudulent text message scams. These "smishing" (SMS phishing) messages impersonate government agencies to trick residents into paying fake fines or revealing personal information.

How the Scam Works

  • The Message: You receive a text claiming you have unpaid traffic tickets, toll fees (often specifically mentioning NC Quick Pass or E-ZPass), or that your license/registration is about to be suspended.
  • The Threat: Scammers use high-pressure language, such as "Final Notice" or "Action required within 12 hours," to create a sense of urgency.
  • The Link: The text includes a link to a fraudulent website that closely mimics the look of the official NCDMV or NCDOT sites.

Red Flags

  • Payment via Text: The NCDMV never requests payment for fees, fines, or tolls through text messages.
  • Suspicious Links: Links often end in .cc (the country code for the Cocos Islands) instead of the official .gov.
  • Name Errors: Scammers may use "Department of Vehicles" instead of the correct "Division of Motor Vehicles".
  • Fake Penalties: The texts may mention penalties that do not exist in NC law, such as a "35% service fee at toll booths" or immediate credit score damage.

Received Scam Text

  1. Do NOT click any links or provide personal/financial information.
  2. Forward the message to 7726 (SPAM) to notify your mobile carrier.
  3. Report the scam to the North Carolina Department of Justice (NCDOJ) or the Federal Trade Commission (FTC).
  4. Verify directly: If you are unsure of your account status, contact the NCDMV directly at (919) 715-7000 or log into your secure myNCDMV account.
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