How Do DMV – Unpaid Toll Scams Work?
Here's how it often plays out:
- You receive a text or email saying you owe money for an unpaid toll or traffic violation.
 - The message includes a link to “pay now” or see details of your supposed violation.
 - Clicking the link may take you to a fake DMV or toll site that looks real — but is designed to steal your payment info or install malware.
 - Sometimes, the scam includes a threat of extra fines or license suspension to pressure you into acting fast.
 
Example: A text says: “You have an unpaid toll fee. Pay $11.69 now to avoid penalties. [fake-link.com]” — but there’s no actual fine, and the link is a trap.
Signs of a DMV – Unpaid Toll Scam
Watch out for these red flags:
- Messages claiming urgent toll or DMV fees out of nowhere.
 - Links that don’t match official websites (e.g., strange URLs).
 - Spelling or grammar mistakes in the message.
 - Threats of extra charges, license suspension, or legal action.
 - Requests for credit card info or bank details immediately.
 - Messages that come from random phone numbers or email addresses.
 
What to Do If You Suspect a DMV – Unpaid Toll Scam
If you think a toll or DMV message might be a scam:
- Don’t click the link or respond.
 - Check directly with your local DMV or toll agency through their official website.
 - Report the scam to local authorities or the FTC.
 - Warn friends or family, especially if they’ve received similar texts.
 
How to Protect Yourself from DMV – Unpaid Toll Scams
Follow these tips to stay safe:
- Ignore messages asking for urgent payment via text or email.
 - Always verify fines on official DMV or toll websites.
 - Never click on unknown links from text messages.
 - Use Trend Micro ScamCheck to check messages before acting.
 - Enable spam filters and browser security features.
 
What to Do If You’ve Already Been Scammed
If you've fallen victim to a DMV – unpaid toll scam:
- Stop communication with the scammer.
 - Contact your bank or credit card provider right away.
 - Report the scam to your local DMV and cybercrime authorities.
 
Tools to Identify DMV – Unpaid Toll Scams
Use these tools to spot DMV – unpaid toll scams:
- Trend Micro ScamCheck
 - Official DMV or toll agency websites
 - Search the message text online — others may have reported it
 - Mobile security apps and browser safety settings
 
Resources to Help You Learn More
Check out these trusted sources for more information:
- FTC
 - Scamwatch
 - IC3 – FBI Internet Crime Center
 - USA.gov – Scams
 - State DMV websites
 
		