It says it’s from the Colorado DMV or some other agency with a vaguely familiar name. It threatens legal or even criminal consequences if you don’t pay up now. It even gives you a convenient link to pay.
Colorado Department of Motor Vehicles says, don’t fall for it. A rash of new text scams are making the rounds, in which scammers are impersonating DMV officials to steal your sensitive information by threatening to revoke your registration and driving privileges.
“The DMV is aware of these latest attempts and is working closely with the Governor’s Office of Information Technology (OIT) to put the brakes on this scam for good,” the department said in a press release.
These scams have become more common in recent years, especially with the advent of robotic speed cameras on I-70 and other major corridors. The robo-cams send tickets directly, by mail, to your home. Many violators don’t realize they were caught until a ticket arrives.
Here’s more from the DMV on how to spot these scams, and what to do if you see them:
“It is critical for all Coloradans to understand that these messages are NOT from the Colorado DMV. The DMV does not initiate contact via unsolicited text messages to demand payment for tickets or to threaten prosecution or suspension of privileges in this manner.
If you receive a suspicious text message claiming to be from the DMV:
- Do NOT click on any links. These lead to “phishing” sites designed to steal your identity or financial data.
- Do NOT share any personal or financial information. This includes your driver’s license number, Social Security number, credit card details, or banking information.
- Do NOT reply. Responding only confirms to the scammer that your number is active.
If you are concerned about the status of your driver’s license, vehicle registration, or any potential tickets, contact the Colorado DMV directly through its official website at dmv.colorado.gov or by phone at (303) 205-5600. Do not use any contact information provided in the suspicious text.