DPS Text Scam Messages Scamming - Fraud 0 0 9 1 Mar 8, 2026 2026-03-08T21:37:46-05:00 Mar 8, 2026 2026-03-08T21:41:56-05:00 Online Threat Alerts (OTA) The Department of Public Safety (DPS) and Department of Motor Vehicles (DMV) do not send text messages for payments or personal information; any such message is a phishing scam. These scams often use "final notice" warnings about unpaid traffic tickets or tolls to create urgency and trick you into clicking on malicious links. Red FlagsUrgent Threats: Messages often threaten immediate license suspension, vehicle registration issues, or legal action if you don't pay within hours.Fake Codes: Scammers often cite non-existent laws, such as "State Administrative Code 15C-16.003," to appear legitimate.Suspicious Senders: Texts frequently come from unknown international numbers (e.g., country code +63 for the Philippines) or random email-like addresses.Malicious Links: The provided URL may look official but will use odd domains like .top, .live, .digital, or .cfd instead of the official .gov.Protect YourselfDo Not Click: Never open links or download attachments from unsolicited texts.Verify Directly: If you are concerned about a real fine, contact your local DPS or DMV using an official number from their government website.Report the Scam:Forward the text to 7726 (SPAM) for your mobile carrier to investigate.Report it to the FTC or the FBI’s Internet Crime Complaint Center (IC3).Block and Delete: Once reported, block the sender and delete the message immediately.