Ohio BMV ticket text scam targets drivers state. See the texts, how to report scam messages
The Ohio Bureau of Motor Vehicles (BMV) has issued a warning about scammers using text messages to impersonate the agency. The messages, claiming to be from the BMV, threaten legal action while ordering recipients to pay fake outstanding traffic tickets in order to collect sensitive information.
BMV says it received multiple reports from Ohioans who received text messages instructing them to pay traffic tickets immediately to avoid a license suspension. The phishing or "smishing" attempt is part of a broader issue that's affecting people nationwide.
Here's how to protect yourself.
Ohioans have been receiving text messages with a fake "final notice" directing them to immediately pay an outstanding traffic ticket. Included in the text messages are suspicious links.
The message also lists deadlines and consequences for not paying by the dates, such as suspended driving privileges and vehicle registration. BMV warns that this is a scam and not from the agency.
"If you receive this text, do not fall for this scam,' said Ohio BMV Registrar Charlie Norman in a statement. 'Do not click any links and delete the text. Ohio BMV will never send you a text demanding payment or requesting your personal information.'
Do not click any links and delete the text message. The BMV says that Ohioans can report scam attempts to the Federal Trade Commission by visiting reportfraud.ftc.gov and advises you to contact your local law enforcement agency if you believe you have been a victim of a scam.
If you receive a text message from a DMV in Ohio or elsewhere demanding money, the Federal Trade Commission also suggests the following, per USA TODAY:
Do not respond to the text or click any links. State DMVs would not ask for your information or money by text.
If you think the message might be real, contact your state's DMV using a trusted phone number or website.
Copy the text message and forward it to 7726 (SPAM). This will help your wireless provider spot and block similar messages.
Report the text on the messaging app you use. Look for the option to report junk or spam.
Report the text to the Federal Trade Commission at reportfraud.ftc.gov and/or file a complaint with the FBI's Internet Crime Complaint Center at ic3.gov.
Text messages claiming to be from the Ohio BMV are likely to be scam texts. The Bureau states that it will never contact you via text to seek payment for tickets or other fees.
This article originally appeared on Cincinnati Enquirer: Ohio BMV warns of scam texts over traffic tickets. What they look like
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