“Your License at Risk? PennDOT, NYS DMV, and Sheriff’s Office Sound Alarm on Text Scam”

A wave of scam text messages is sweeping across the country, with fraudsters impersonating state motor vehicle agencies like PennDOT and the New York State DMV, as well as referencing local law enforcement such as the Fresno County Sheriff’s Office, to trick drivers into handing over personal and financial information.

These texts typically warn recipients that their vehicle registration or driver’s license will be suspended unless they pay an alleged fine immediately. Some even cite fake administrative codes or threaten additional penalties, including negative impacts on credit scores and prosecution.

Authorities in Pennsylvania, New York, and other states stress that these messages are fraudulent. PennDOT and the NYS DMV confirm they do not send unsolicited texts demanding payment or threatening suspension of driving privileges The scam texts often include links that appear official but lead to phishing sites designed to steal sensitive data.

Officials urge anyone who receives such a message to:.

• Not click any links or respond to the text.

• Never provide personal or financial information.

• Delete the message immediately.

• Report the scam to the appropriate state agency or the Federal Trade Commission.

Stay vigilant—legitimate DMV communications will never demand payment or sensitive information via text. If in doubt, contact your state DMV or local sheriff’s office directly for verification.