Delaware DMV warns about scam texts demanding payment for violations

The Delaware Division of Motor Vehicles is urging Delawareans not to click on links in questionable text messages.

This latest reminder comes after a new Short Message Service phishing scam has surfaced claiming to come from the State of Delaware DMV. The message states that the recipient has an outstanding traffic violation and instructs them to click on a link to pay the amount due by a specific date to avoid suspension of their vehicle registration and driving privileges, further legal action, and referral to a debt collector.

These text message alerts are a scam. They are designed to trick recipients into paying a false penalty while also giving the message sender access to their personal, private and financial data.

The DMV urges all residents and customers not to click on any links that solicit money for unpaid traffic or toll violations, or for account replenishment. The Delaware DMV and E-ZPass Delaware will not contact individuals via text demanding payment for a violation.

“We are seeing an increase in fraudulent text messages designed to create a sense of urgency and pressure individuals into taking immediate action,” said DMV Director Amy Anthony. “The most effective way to protect yourself is to pause, avoid clicking on links, and refrain from sharing any personal information unless you are absolutely certain the message is legitimate. If something seems suspicious, trust your instincts. It’s always better to verify than become a victim of a scam.”

Anyone who receives a suspicious text or email can report it to the Federal Trade Commission or the Internet Crime Complaint Center at ic3.gov. When reporting, be sure to include the phone number from which the text originated and the website listed within the text.

Anyone who clicks on a suspicious link or has provided sensitive information to an unknown source should secure their personal information and financial accounts, and dispute any unfamiliar charges with their financial institutions and credit card companies.

For information about a Delaware license or registration, go to myDMV.delaware.gov and log in or create an account. For more details, call 302-744-2500 or email DMVCustomerService@delaware.gov. For information about an E-ZPass account, visit ezpassde.com, stop by the E-ZPassDE Customer Service Center in downtown Dover, or call 1-888-397-2773.