Virginia DMV Scam Texts: The Message That Could Cost You More Than You Think

A surge of scam texts impersonating the Virginia Department of Motor Vehicles is targeting residents with urgent messages about supposed unpaid traffic fines These fraudulent texts claim recipients must pay immediately to avoid license suspension, registration loss, or even prosecution—and they often include a suspicious link.

Officials stress that the Virginia DMV will never send text messages demanding payment for fines or fees Clicking on links in these messages can expose your personal information to scammers, putting you at risk for identity theft.

If you receive such a text:.

• Do not click any links or reply.

• Report the message using your phone’s “report junk” feature or forward it to 7726 (SPAM).

• Contact the DMV directly using official channels if you’re unsure about any communication.

Authorities urge Virginians to stay vigilant as these scams continue to spread across the state and beyond.