The West Virginia Division of Motor Vehicles is warning citizens about text scams claiming to be from the DMV.
“West Virginia DMV will never text citizens requesting payment. Never,” according to a press release from the agency.
Some common tactics scammers use include:
- Setting urgent deadlines (do this now, or a bad thing will happen)
- Using language, logos or imagery similar to official content — but a little different
- Using texts to request money
- Playing on fear
“If it makes you feel uncomfortable or immediately concerned, the sender is a scammer, not DMV,” the release stated. “DMV deadlines are known in advance (such as the expiration date on your license plate.) DMV will treat you like a guest, whether in person or on the phone, and will not seek to make you feel alarmed.”
Anyone concerned that a text they have received may be a scam can contact the West Virginia DMV at (800) 642-9066 or stop by a local office.
“Remember, if it is a text asking for payment, it is a scam,” the release said.
