If you live in Colorado and recently received a text or email claiming you owe money for unpaid tickets, be careful. The Colorado DMV has issued a warning about fake messages that are making the rounds in 2025.
These scam texts pretend to come from the DMV and try to scare people into paying fines they don’t actually owe. Some of these messages even threaten license suspension or legal action if you don’t act fast.
In this blog post, we’ll walk through everything you need to know about the Colorado DMV scam, including what it looks like, how to stay safe, and what to do if you’ve already been targeted.
Key Takeaways
- Scammers are sending fake text messages pretending to be from the Colorado DMV, falsely claiming unpaid tickets or license suspension .
- These messages often include links or ask for personal information, which can lead to identity theft or financial loss .
- The real Colorado DMV will never ask for payment or personal details through unsolicited texts or emails .
- If you receive one of these scam messages, delete it immediately and report it to local authorities or the Colorado DMV .
- Stay informed and share this knowledge with friends and family, especially older adults who may be more vulnerable to online fraud .
What Is the Colorado DMV Scam?
The Colorado DMV scam involves fraudulent text messages and emails sent to residents, claiming they have unpaid traffic tickets. These messages appear official and often use language meant to cause fear, such as threats of license suspension or arrest.
The goal is to trick recipients into clicking on malicious links or sharing sensitive personal information.
This scam has become widespread, targeting drivers throughout the state. It is crucial to understand how these scams operate so you can avoid falling victim to them.
How Does the Scam Work?
Scammers create fake messages that look like they come from the Colorado DMV. These texts often say things like “Unpaid ticket detected” or “Your license is at risk.”
They usually contain a link or phone number to call. When users click the link, they’re taken to a phishing site designed to steal personal data.
Others might call the number and speak to someone pretending to be a DMV employee. These tactics aim to pressure victims into acting quickly without thinking. It’s important to remember that the real DMV does not contact people this way unless you’ve initiated contact first.
Why Are People Falling for the Scam?
Many people fall for the Colorado DMV scam because the messages feel urgent and official. Scammers use realistic logos, correct formatting, and language that mimics real government notices.
Since many Coloradans have received legitimate emails or texts from other agencies, it’s easy to believe these fake ones too.
Also, some people are worried about missing a real ticket or having their license suspended. This fear makes them act without verifying the message. Older adults and those unfamiliar with online fraud are especially at risk. That’s why education and awareness matter so much.
What Do the Scam Messages Typically Say?
The scam messages usually claim that the recipient has an unpaid traffic violation. Some common phrases include “Action Required: Unpaid Ticket,” “Your Driving Privileges May Be Suspended,” or “Immediate Payment Needed.”
They often mention a specific amount owed and give a deadline to pay. The messages also include a link or a phone number to contact.
These tactics are designed to make people panic and respond without checking if the message is real. If you see any of these phrases, stop and verify before taking any action.
How Can You Spot a Fake DMV Message?
To spot a fake DMV message, check for red flags. First, the sender’s phone number or email address may look suspicious or not match official DMV contacts. Second, the message might have spelling or grammar mistakes.
Third, real DMV communications rarely demand immediate action through unsolicited texts or emails. Fourth, if the message asks for personal details like your Social Security number or driver’s license info, it’s likely a scam.
Lastly, hover over any links—if the URL looks off or doesn’t end in .gov, it’s probably fake. Always double-check before responding.
What Should You Do If You Receive a Suspected Scam Message?
If you get a message that looks like a DMV scam, take these steps right away. First, do not click any links or call any numbers in the message. Delete the message from your phone or email.
Next, report the message to the Colorado DMV or local law enforcement. You can also forward phishing texts to the Federal Trade Commission at 7726 (SPAM).
If you already clicked a link or shared information, run a security scan on your device and monitor your bank accounts for unusual activity. Taking quick action can help protect your personal data.
How Is the Colorado DMV Responding to the Scam?
The Colorado DMV is actively warning residents about these fake messages. Officials have issued public alerts through blogs, news outlets, and social media to raise awareness. They remind citizens that the DMV will never ask for payment or personal details through unsolicited texts or emails.
In addition, they encourage people to visit the official DMV website or call directly if they suspect a ticket exists.
Law enforcement agencies are also working with the DMV to track down scammers and prevent future attacks. Staying updated with official DMV announcements helps keep you informed and protected.
Are Other States Facing Similar DMV Scams?
Yes, DMV-related scams are not unique to Colorado. Many other states have reported similar fraud attempts where criminals impersonate government agencies. These scams often follow the same pattern—fake unpaid tickets, threats of license suspension, and phishing links.
Some states have seen variations, like fake car registration renewal notices or toll violations. As technology improves, scammers find new ways to trick people across the country.
This trend shows the importance of staying alert no matter where you live. Learning from other states’ experiences can help you better protect yourself from similar threats.
How Can You Protect Yourself from Future Scams?
Protecting yourself from future scams starts with awareness and caution. First, always verify unexpected messages by contacting the DMV directly using official phone numbers or websites. Never rely on contact info provided in suspicious messages.
Second, use strong passwords and enable two-factor authentication on all your online accounts. Third, install trusted security software on your phone and computer to block phishing attempts.
Fourth, stay updated on the latest scams by following official DMV alerts and cybersecurity news. Lastly, talk to friends and family about these risks, especially seniors who may be more vulnerable. Being proactive helps reduce your chances of becoming a victim.
What Else Should Coloradans Know About Online Fraud?
Besides the DMV scam, Coloradans should be aware of other types of online fraud. Common schemes include fake tax refunds, rental scams, and phishing emails pretending to be banks or utility companies.
Some scammers target job seekers with fake employment offers that require upfront payments. Others pose as tech support services asking for remote access to your devices.
These scams evolve constantly, so staying informed is key. Regularly check official sources like the Colorado Attorney General’s website for updates on current fraud trends. By understanding different types of scams, you can build better habits to protect yourself online.
FAQs
What should I do if I clicked on a scam link?
Delete the message and run a virus scan on your device. Monitor your bank accounts for suspicious activity and consider changing your passwords.
How can I verify if I really have an unpaid ticket?
Visit the official Colorado DMV website or call their office directly using listed contact details. Do not use links or numbers from suspicious messages.
Will the DMV ever text me about tickets?
No, the DMV does not send unsolicited texts about unpaid tickets. Any such message is likely a scam.
Can I report scam messages?
Yes, you can report scam texts to the Colorado DMV or forward them to the FTC at 7726 (SPAM).
Are older adults more at risk?
Yes, older adults may be more likely to trust official-looking messages without questioning them. Educating seniors about online scams is very important.
