Virginia residents are facing a surge of dangerous text message scams claiming to be from the Department of Motor Vehicles.
These fraudulent messages threaten vehicle registration suspension, driving privilege loss, and hefty fines to trick victims into sharing personal information or making payments.
This comprehensive guide reveals everything you need to know about these Virginia DMV text scams, how to identify them, and what steps to take if you receive one.
Key Takeaways
• Virginia DMV Never Texts About Fines: The official Virginia Department of Motor Vehicles never sends text messages regarding traffic violations, unpaid fines, or license suspensions. Any text claiming otherwise is a scam.
• Scammers Use Fear Tactics: These fraudulent messages create urgent deadlines and threaten severe consequences like registration suspension, driving privilege loss, or additional penalties to pressure victims into immediate action.
• Personal Information at Risk: Clicking links in these scam texts can lead to identity theft as fraudsters attempt to steal Social Security numbers, credit card information, and banking details through fake payment portals.
• Multiple Reporting Options Available: Victims should forward scam texts to 7726 (SPAM), report to the Federal Trade Commission at reportfraud.ftc.gov, and contact Virginia DMV directly if they have concerns about their actual driving record.
• Verification Through Official Channels: Always verify any DMV related concerns by visiting the official Virginia DMV website at dmv.virginia.gov or calling their customer service line directly rather than clicking links in text messages.
What Are Virginia DMV Text Scams
Virginia DMV text scams are fraudulent messages that impersonate the state Department of Motor Vehicles to steal personal information and money from unsuspecting residents. These scams have exploded across the Commonwealth in recent months, with law enforcement agencies from Virginia Beach to Gloucester County issuing urgent warnings to protect citizens.
The scam messages typically claim recipients have outstanding traffic violations or unpaid toll fees that must be resolved immediately. They create fake urgency by threatening vehicle registration suspension, driving privilege loss, or additional penalties if payment is not made within days or hours. The messages often include official sounding language and reference fake Virginia state codes to appear legitimate.
Scammers target thousands of Virginia phone numbers simultaneously using automated systems. They do not have access to actual DMV records, so these messages are sent randomly to phone numbers regardless of whether recipients actually have any violations or outstanding fees. The goal is to cast a wide net and catch vulnerable victims who might panic and respond without thinking.
How These Scams Actually Work
The Virginia DMV text scam operation follows a predictable pattern designed to exploit fear and urgency. Scammers first obtain lists of phone numbers through various illegal means, including data breaches, social media scraping, and purchasing information from other criminals on the dark web.
Once they have phone numbers, scammers use spoofing technology to make their messages appear to come from legitimate government numbers or shortcodes. They craft messages that reference specific Virginia state codes, use official sounding language, and include threats of immediate consequences to create panic in recipients.
The text messages direct victims to click on malicious links that lead to fake websites designed to look like official Virginia DMV payment portals. These sites are carefully crafted to steal credit card information, Social Security numbers, banking details, and other personal data. Some scams also use phone numbers that connect victims to fake customer service representatives who pressure them for information over the phone.
Advanced scammers may even use information from previous data breaches to personalize their messages with partial address information or vehicle details to make the scam appear more credible. This personalization increases the likelihood that victims will believe the message is legitimate and follow the instructions.
Current Scam Messages Circulating in Virginia
Recent scam messages reported by Virginia law enforcement contain several common elements that residents should recognize immediately. The Virginia Beach Sheriff’s Office shared an example message that reads: “Outstanding traffic ticket. Report to DMV violation database, suspend vehicle registration starting June 2nd, suspend driving privileges for 30 days, transfer to toll collection agency.”
Another version circulating in Gloucester County states: “Final Notice: Enforcement Penalties Begin on June 4.” These messages typically include immediate threats and create fake deadlines to pressure recipients into quick action without careful consideration.
The messages often reference fake Virginia state codes such as “New Virginia State Administrative Code 15C” to appear official and legitimate. Some versions include partial license plate numbers or vehicle information obtained from previous data breaches to make the scam more convincing.
Toll related scam messages are also common, claiming recipients owe unpaid fees to E-ZPass Virginia or other toll agencies. These messages threaten additional charges, collection agency referral, or legal action if immediate payment is not made through the provided link.
Red Flags That Identify Scam Messages
Several warning signs immediately identify these messages as fraudulent attempts to steal personal information. The most obvious red flag is receiving any text message claiming to be from the Virginia DMV, since the official department never communicates about violations or fines through text messaging.
Urgent deadlines and threats are hallmarks of scam messages. Legitimate government communications provide reasonable timeframes for response and do not threaten immediate suspension of driving privileges or vehicle registration. Scammers create artificial urgency to prevent victims from researching or verifying the claims.
The sender information often reveals scam attempts. Legitimate government agencies use official email addresses and phone numbers, not random phone numbers or suspicious domains. Messages from numbers like generic mobile numbers or unfamiliar shortcodes should raise immediate suspicion.
Grammar and spelling errors frequently appear in scam messages, along with awkward phrasing that suggests the content was written by non-native English speakers or generated by automated systems. Official government communications undergo careful review and editing before distribution.
What Virginia DMV Actually Does
The official Virginia Department of Motor Vehicles has clear policies about how they communicate with residents regarding violations, renewals, and other matters. Understanding these official procedures helps residents identify fraudulent messages immediately.
Virginia DMV communicates through official mail for most violation notices, renewal reminders, and important updates about driving privileges or vehicle registration. They maintain detailed records of all official correspondence and provide case numbers and reference information for verification.
Email and text reminders are available through Virginia DMV’s official eNotification system, but only for renewal reminders that residents specifically sign up to receive. These voluntary notifications come from verified DMV systems and never request payment information or threaten immediate penalties.
The Virginia DMV website at dmv.virginia.gov provides the official portal for all online services, including checking violation status, making payments, and updating personal information. The department never directs residents to external payment sites or third party services for official business.
Official Virginia DMV Communication Methods
Virginia DMV uses specific channels for different types of communication with residents. Understanding these official methods helps distinguish legitimate communications from fraudulent attempts to steal personal information.
Postal mail remains the primary method for official notices regarding violations, license suspensions, registration issues, and other serious matters. These letters come on official Virginia DMV letterhead with proper state seals and include specific case numbers for verification.
Phone communications from Virginia DMV come from verified numbers that residents can confirm by calling the main customer service line at (804) 497-7100. The department maintains records of all outbound calls and can verify whether specific communications were sent from their offices.
Online services are available through the official dmv.virginia.gov website, which uses secure encryption and official state authentication systems. The Virginia DMV never directs residents to external websites for payments or personal information updates through text messages or unofficial communications.
Steps to Take If You Receive a Scam Text
Immediate action is crucial when receiving suspected Virginia DMV scam texts to protect personal information and help law enforcement track these criminal operations. The first step is to avoid clicking any links or responding to the message in any way.
Delete the message immediately after documenting it if needed for reporting purposes. Do not click links, call provided phone numbers, or respond with any information. Even responding with “STOP” can confirm to scammers that your number is active and lead to more scam attempts.
Forward the scam message to 7726 (SPAM) to report it to your wireless carrier’s spam detection system. This helps carriers identify and block similar messages from reaching other customers. Most major carriers participate in this reporting system.
Report the scam to the Federal Trade Commission at reportfraud.ftc.gov, which maintains a national database of fraud attempts and works with law enforcement to investigate criminal operations. Include screenshots and details about the message content when filing your report.
How to Report Virginia DMV Text Scams
Multiple reporting channels are available for Virginia residents who receive DMV text scams. Using several reporting methods increases the chances that law enforcement can track down the criminals and prevent additional victims.
The Federal Trade Commission serves as the primary federal agency for fraud reporting. Visit reportfraud.ftc.gov to file a detailed complaint including the phone number that sent the message, exact text content, and any links or phone numbers provided in the scam message.
Virginia DMV maintains a fraud hotline at 1-877-ZERO-FRAUD (1-877-937-6372) specifically for reporting DMV related scams and fraudulent activity. They also accept email reports at zerofraud@dmv.virginia.gov and work with law enforcement to investigate these crimes.
Local law enforcement agencies across Virginia are actively investigating these scams and appreciate reports from residents. Contact your local sheriff’s office or police department to file a report, especially if you provided any personal information or suffered financial losses.
The FBI’s Internet Crime Complaint Center at ic3.gov accepts reports of phishing and spoofing scams that cross state lines. These reports help federal investigators track criminal networks operating across multiple jurisdictions.
Protecting Your Personal Information
Strong personal information security serves as the first line of defense against Virginia DMV text scams and other fraudulent attempts to steal identity and financial information. Implementing basic security practices significantly reduces vulnerability to these criminal operations.
Never provide personal information in response to unsolicited text messages, regardless of how official they appear. Legitimate government agencies and businesses have secure systems for collecting sensitive information and do not request it through text messages or phone calls.
Verify all communications through official channels before taking any action. If you receive a message claiming to be from Virginia DMV, visit the official website or call the customer service number directly to confirm whether any actual issues exist with your driving record or vehicle registration.
Monitor your accounts regularly for signs of unauthorized activity. Check bank statements, credit reports, and online accounts frequently for transactions or changes you did not authorize. Early detection of fraudulent activity minimizes potential damage and helps law enforcement investigate.
Use strong, unique passwords for all online accounts and enable two factor authentication whenever possible. This prevents criminals from accessing your accounts even if they obtain some personal information through scam attempts.
What to Do If You Already Responded
Immediate damage control is essential if you already clicked links or provided information in response to a Virginia DMV text scam. Quick action can minimize the potential consequences and help protect your identity and finances.
Contact your bank and credit card companies immediately if you provided any financial information. Request that they monitor your accounts for suspicious activity and consider placing temporary holds or issuing new card numbers to prevent unauthorized transactions.
Monitor your credit reports closely for signs of identity theft. You can obtain free credit reports from all three major credit bureaus at annualcreditreport.com and should check them regularly for new accounts or inquiries you did not authorize.
Change passwords for all online accounts, especially those related to banking, government services, and other sensitive information. Use the security features provided by these services to lock down your accounts and prevent unauthorized access.
File a police report with your local law enforcement agency if you suffered any financial losses or believe your identity has been compromised. This creates an official record that can help with insurance claims and provides law enforcement with information to investigate the criminal operation.
Legal Consequences for Scammers
Federal and state laws provide severe penalties for individuals and organizations operating Virginia DMV text scams. Understanding these legal consequences helps residents appreciate the seriousness of these crimes and the importance of reporting them to authorities.
Wire fraud charges can result in up to 20 years in federal prison for each count, along with substantial fines and restitution requirements. The use of interstate communications systems to defraud victims makes these scams federal crimes subject to investigation by the FBI and other federal agencies.
Identity theft charges carry additional penalties when scammers use obtained personal information to commit other crimes. Virginia state law provides for significant prison sentences and fines for identity theft, especially when it involves multiple victims or substantial financial losses.
The Federal Trade Commission has authority to pursue civil enforcement actions against scam operations, including asset freezing, business shutdowns, and monetary judgments. These actions help recover funds for victims and prevent continued criminal activity.
Interstate coordination between law enforcement agencies increases the likelihood of catching and prosecuting scam operators who target victims across multiple states. Virginia authorities work closely with federal agencies and other states to track these criminal networks.
Prevention Tips for Families
Family education plays a crucial role in preventing Virginia DMV text scam victimization. Different family members may face varying levels of risk, and comprehensive prevention strategies should address the needs of all household members.
Educate elderly family members about common scam tactics, as they are often targeted by criminals who assume they may be less familiar with digital security practices. Provide them with simple guidelines for verifying communications and encourage them to consult with family members before responding to suspicious messages.
Teach teenagers and young adults about the importance of protecting personal information online and through text messages. These age groups may be more likely to click links or respond to messages without carefully considering the consequences.
Establish family communication protocols for handling suspicious messages. Encourage family members to share and discuss questionable communications rather than responding independently. This peer review process can help identify scams that might fool individual family members.
Keep emergency contact information readily available for reporting scams and fraud. Ensure all family members know how to contact local law enforcement, the Federal Trade Commission, and financial institutions if they encounter fraudulent activity.
Frequently Asked Questions
Does Virginia DMV ever send text messages about violations?
No, Virginia DMV never sends text messages about traffic violations, fines, or license suspensions.
What should I do if I receive a DMV text message?
Delete it immediately, forward it to 7726 (SPAM), and report it to the FTC at reportfraud.ftc.gov.
How can I verify if I actually have any DMV violations?
Visit the official Virginia DMV website at dmv.virginia.gov or call their customer service line directly.
What information do scammers try to steal?
They target Social Security numbers, credit card information, banking details, and personal identification information.
Can I get my money back if I paid a scammer?
Contact your bank or credit card company immediately, but recovery is not guaranteed for scam payments.
How do scammers get my phone number?
They obtain numbers through data breaches, social media scraping, and purchasing lists from other criminals.
Should I respond to tell them to stop texting me?
No, any response confirms your number is active and may result in more scam messages.
What happens if I clicked the link but didn’t enter information?
Monitor your accounts closely and run security scans on your device for potential malware.
Can these scams install viruses on my phone?
Yes, clicking malicious links can potentially install malware or tracking software on your device.
How often should I check my credit report after a scam attempt?
Check your credit reports monthly for several months after any potential identity theft incident.
