DMV text scam: “your registration will be suspended”?

State DMVs and attorneys general are warning about fake texts threatening license or registration suspension over an “unpaid ticket.” Check the link before you click.

What’s happening

A fast-spreading text scam impersonates the DMV (or Secretary of State / Motor Vehicle Commission) and claims you have an overdue traffic ticket or fine and that your license or vehicle registration will be suspended unless you pay immediately. State officials across the country — including attorneys general, secretaries of state and state police — have issued warnings about this exact wave in recent days.

The link leads to a page that mimics an official state site and asks for payment plus personal and card details. Some variants cite a fake case number, a badge, or a specific dollar amount to look legitimate and rush you into paying.

Real DMVs don’t text demanding immediate payment to avoid suspension, and they don’t take payment by a link in an unsolicited text. If you’re unsure, don’t click — paste the link for an instant check, then verify directly with your DMV using a number or site you look up yourself.