VDOT warns of new text scam in Virginia

The toll road scam? That’s old news. The newest scam on the block now involves a phone text purportedly sent by the Virginia Department of Motor Vehicles informing folks they supposedly have an outstanding traffic ticket.

The text scam comes across as a “final notice” and claims to be in accordance with Virginia code. It also threatens a DMV violation, suspension of one’s registration, suspended driving privileges, and a possible credit score reduction.

More importantly, it includes an internet link. Do not tap the link.

“Clicking that link could result in your personal information being stolen, making you a victim of this scam,” the DMV said in a recent press release.

“The DMV will never send you text messages demanding payment for fines or fees,” said DMV Commissioner Gerald Lackey. “We urge our customers to be vigilant and avoid sending your personal information via text.”

Here are some tips from the Federal Trade Commission on how to avoid falling for a text scam similar to this one:

• Don’t click on any links in, or respond to, unexpected texts. Scammers want you to react quickly, but it’s best to stop and check it out.

• Check to see if the text is legit. Reach out to the agency using a phone number or website you know is real — not the info from the text.

• Report and delete unwanted text messages. Use your phone’s “report junk” option to report unwanted texts to your messaging app or forward them to 7726 (SPAM). Once you’ve checked it out and reported it, delete the text.

You can also report a phishing text or other suspicious communication to the United States Federal Trade Commission.

Brad Zinn is the cops, courts and breaking news reporter at The News Leader. Have a news tip? Or something that needs investigating? You can email reporter Brad Zinn (he/him) at [email protected]. You can also follow him on X (formerly Twitter).

This article originally appeared on Staunton News Leader: VDOT warns of new text scam in Virginia

Reporting by Brad Zinn, Staunton News Leader / Staunton News Leader

USA TODAY Network via Reuters Connect

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