Oregon DMV and ODOT warn of text message scam stealing drivers’ personal info

SALEM, ore. (KTVZ) -- The Oregon Department of Transportation and the Oregon DMV issued a warning Wednesday regarding a text message phishing scam targeting drivers. The fraudulent messages falsely claim that recipients owe money for unpaid tolls, license suspensions or traffic violations.

Scammers are sending these messages across the country to lure residents to fake websites designed to look like official government pages. These counterfeit sites are used to steal personal and financial information from individuals who believe they are settling official debts.

The fraudulent messages often include alarming language such as "urgent notice," "violation" or "final enforcement." Some texts warn that a driver's license or vehicle registration will be suspended or that fines will increase if the recipient does not pay immediately. These messages contain links to fake websites that attempt to collect credit card or personal information.

Official state agencies emphasized that they do not use these methods for collections or notifications. Chris Crabb, public information officer for the Oregon DMV, stated that the agency does not solicit payments through unsolicited digital communications. "ODOT and DMV will never ask you to pay through a text message, email, phone call or third-party website," Crabb said. "Scammers try to scare you into acting quickly. Do not reply, click links or share payment or personal information. Block the number and delete the text."

To protect themselves, residents are advised to avoid clicking links or replying to any unexpected text messages claiming to be from the state. Officials suggest reporting scam texts to 7726 (SPAM) and filing a formal report with the U.S. Federal Trade Commission. Reporting the messages directly to ODOT or the DMV is not required.

For individuals who have already interacted with a scam link or provided personal data, the state recommends changing passwords and monitoring accounts for suspicious activity. Any unrecognized charges should be disputed with financial institutions. Victims are also encouraged to file a customer complaint with the Oregon Department of Justice Consumer Protection division.

Drivers who are unsure about the legitimacy of a message can contact ODOT at one-888-Ask-ODOT or the DMV at 503-945-5000. Further information about fraud prevention is available at oregondmv.com.