Nationwide DMV Scams Targeting Consumers

There has been a rise in a text messaging scam that is targeting people across the United States, including right here in Maine. Scammers are sending fake text messages claiming to be from state Departments of Motor Vehicles, threatening recipients with license suspension, vehicle registration cancellation, and even prosecution for unpaid fines or violations. These messages are completely fraudulent and designed to steal your personal and financial information. 
 
What the Scam Looks Like
 
These fraudulent text messages typically:

• Claim to be from your state's Department of Motor Vehicles
• Include threatening language about "final notices" or unpaid fines
• Warn of consequences like license suspension or prosecution
• Contain links to fake websites requesting payment
• Ask for credit card numbers and personal information

No state Department of Motor Vehicles in the United States sends enforcement notices, payment demands, or violation warnings via text message. This is a key fact to remember.
 
This is Happening Nationwide
 
While Maine's Secretary of State recently issued a specific warning about this scam affecting Mainers, this is a nationwide phishing scam that has recently targeted citizens with fraudulent text messages and has been reported in at least 14 states. Michigan State Police are issuing warnings, and similar alerts have been issued by authorities in Alabama, Rhode Island, North Carolina, and many other states.
 
What to Do if You Receive One of These Texts
 
DO:

• Delete the text message immediately
• Report it as spam/junk to your phone carrier
• Verify any legitimate DMV matters by contacting your local DMV office directly using official phone numbers

DON'T:

• Click any links in the text message
• Provide any personal or financial information
• Call any phone numbers included in the text
• Forward the message to others

If You Already Clicked or Provided Information
 
Act immediately:

• Contact your bank - Call First National Bank immediately at 1-800-564-3195 to report potential fraud
• Monitor your accounts - Check all bank and credit card statements for unauthorized transactions
• Consider a credit freeze - This prevents scammers from opening new accounts in your name
• Contact local law enforcement if you lost money to the scam
• Report the fraud at https://reportfraud.ftc.gov/

Red Flags to Watch For

 

Urgency is ALWAYS a red flag – if they are telling you that you must act quickly or risk a consequence, it is likely a scam. Other warning signs include:

• Unsolicited texts about government matters
• Demands for immediate payment
• Threats of legal action
• Requests for credit card information via text or suspicious websites
• Poor grammar or spelling in official-looking messages

Remember: When in Doubt, Verify
 
If you're not sure if a message is true, ALWAYS verify its legitimacy by contacting the official source directly by looking up the number. Legitimate government agencies typically communicate about important matters through official mail, not text messages.
 
Questions? Contact us at 1-800-564-3195 or visit any First National Bank location.