PennDOT and NY DMV warn drivers about final notice scam texts
Scammers are sending urgent texts falsely claiming to be from state agencies to demand payment for fines. Officials advise drivers to ignore these messages and report them to prevent fraud.
Key points
- Scam texts target drivers in Pennsylvania, New York, and other states with false agency claims.
- Messages use urgent language like final notice to threaten suspension or credit damage.
- PennDOT and NY DMV state they do not send unsolicited texts about violations or fines.
- Authorities urge recipients to delete the messages and report them as spam.
A wave of scam text messages is targeting drivers across Pennsylvania, New York, and several other states, falsely claiming to be from PennDOT, the New York DMV, or similar agencies. These texts often use urgent language like “Final Notice” or “Final Reminder,” warning recipients about unpaid fines or outstanding tickets and threatening suspension of driving privileges, prosecution, or even a negative impact on credit scores if payment isn’t made immediately.
Officials from PennDOT and the New York DMV stress that they do not send unsolicited texts about violations, fines, or driver status. Any message demanding payment or personal information via text is a scam. Authorities urge recipients not to click on any links, not to provide any personal details, and to report the messages as spam.
This scam has affected residents in multiple states, with scammers hoping to trick drivers into handing over sensitive information. If you receive such a message, delete it and report it to your wireless provider or federal authorities to help prevent further fraud.
Your questions, answered
Does PennDOT send text messages about unpaid fines?
No, officials from PennDOT and the New York DMV state that they do not send unsolicited texts about violations, fines, or driver status.
What should I do if I receive a scam text from the DMV?
Do not click on any links or provide personal details. Delete the message and report it to your wireless provider or federal authorities.
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