Scam Alert: If you get a text message or email that claims Oregon DMV is telling you to ‘Pay Now,’ don’t click – delete it
SALEM, Ore. (KTVZ) – If you receive a text message or email from Oregon DMV requesting payment or personal identifying information, do not respond or click any links. The best course of action is to ignore, delete and block the message, officials advised Monday
“These messages are not from Oregon DMV,” said Oregon DMV Public Information Officer Chris Crabb. “These are fake messages designed to get you to click on a link and provide personal information or send money.”
In the latest scam, bad actors are claiming you have an outstanding traffic ticket or other violation. The text cites a phony Oregon State Administrative Code and claims if you do not pay by a certain date, you will face vehicle registration suspension, suspended driving privileges, service fees and damage to your credit score.
The scam says to pay immediately before enforcement to avoid license suspension and further legal disputes.
“Oregon DMV will never ask you for personal information or payment through an unsolicited text, email or phone call,” said Crabb. “DMV transactions should only be completed online at dmv2u.oregon.gov or in person at a DMV office.”
Oregon DMV offers secure online services and sends text or email messages in some instances, but only for transactions that you start, and the messages never include links to confirm personal information or payment. We would only ask for proof of identity or payment through DMV2U or by requesting copies of your identity documents in person at a DMV office.
How to protect yourself
- Don't click links. If you receive a text about unpaid tolls, do not click on any links or provide any information.
- Be cautious of suspicious texts. Be wary of any text message that demands immediate action or asks for personal information or payment.
- Delete the text and block the number to prevent further potential harm.
- Report scams and suspicious communications to the U.S. Federal Trade Commission. It will help to include the phone number from which the text originated, and any website listed within the text.
If you click a link or provide your information
- Secure your personal information and financial accounts.
- Dispute any unfamiliar charges.
For more information about fraud prevention, visit oregondmv.com.
