Don’t fall for this DMV text message scam!
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IDAHO FALLS – Idaho residents are being swarmed with scam texts claiming they have outstanding traffic tickets. Don’t fall for it.
According to a news release from the Idaho Attorney General’s Office, Idahoans are receiving text messages with fake DMV notices, claiming unpaid traffic tickets will result in their license suspension or legal penalties.
“Scammers stole over $63 million from Idahoans last year, predominantly targeting our seniors,” said Attorney General Raul Labrador. “These scammers are now using fake DMV texts to steal even more. Idaho families need to know that legitimate government agencies never demand payments through text messages.”
The fake messages claim to be from the Idaho DMV and threaten immediate license suspension unless payment is made through suspicious links.
Law enforcement agencies across Idaho have confirmed that they never send text messages demanding payments or threatening penalties for unpaid violations, tolls, or missed jury duty.
“Idahoans should watch for red flags, including urgent payment demands, threats of arrest or license suspension, suspicious website links designed to look official, and requests for payment through gift cards,” the attorney general’s office said.
According to the 2024 FBI Internet Crime Report, seniors were disproportionately targeted by these schemes nationwide. The report also found that Idaho residents filed 3,081 complaints and have sustained $63 million in total losses from cyber-enabled crimes and fraud.
“Idahoans who receive suspicious texts should report them to the Federal Trade Commission and delete the message without clicking any links or providing personal information,” according to the release.