DMV warns of latest texting scam in NH
Scam text
The New Hampshire Department of Safety's Division of Motor Vehicles is warning residents of a text message scam where recipients are asked to send a payment immediately to resolve a traffic violation. DMV officials said Monday they received multiple reports of text messages (shown above) claiming to be 'a final notice' and warning recipients a 'traffic violation remains unpaid.'
Officials with the New Hampshire Department of Safety's Division of Motor Vehicles (DMV) are warning residents of a text message scam where recipients are asked to send a payment immediately to resolve a traffic violation.
DMV officials said Monday they have received multiple reports of text messages claiming to be 'a final notice,' warning recipients a 'traffic violation remains unpaid.'
The scam threatens recipients with enforcement penalties, including potential legal prosecution, credit damage and the suspension of their vehicle registration and driver's license if immediate payment is not made.
The URL address provided for payment in the fraudulent text includes 'nhgov' in it, which makes it appear to be an official State of New Hampshire website.
DMV officials said the department never sends text messages regarding payments — the only text messages sent are appointment reminders.
'We urge all residents to remain vigilant for scams and encourage anyone who feels unsure about a communication from the DMV to contact our Customer Service line directly at (603) 227-4000,' said DMV Director John Marasco in a statement.
Anyone who receives a text message claiming to be from the New Hampshire DMV should not submit payment or any personal information and delete the message immediately, officials said.
Anyone who believes they are a victim of a scam or identity theft are advised to file a report with their local police department, review personal credit reports, and consider setting up fraud alerts or a credit freeze.
Identity theft victims can also file a report with the Federal Trade Commission at IdentityTheft.gov or call 1-877-438-4338.
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