Delaware DMV Issues Scam Alert to Residents

Image Courtesy of Delaware Division of Motor Vehicles

DELAWARE – The Delaware Division of Motor Vehicles (DMV) is urging Delawareans not to click on links in suspicious text messages.

This latest reminder comes after a new Short Message Service (SMS) phishing scam has surfaced referencing the Delaware DMV. The scam alert 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 the suspension of their vehicle registration, driving privileges, further legal action, and/or referral to a debt collector. These text message alerts are a scam designed to trick recipients into paying an undisclosed amount while also gaining 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 you via text demanding payment for a violation. 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.

“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,” said DMV Director Amy Anthony. “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. When reporting, include the phone number from where the text originated and the website listed within the text.