Scammers are impersonating Departments of Motor Vehicles (DMVs) in emails or text messages that look convincingly official. The messages claim you have an outstanding fine or missed registration payment and threaten late penalties or legal action if you don’t resolve the issue immediately.

Here’s how the scam works:

• You receive a “final notice” via email or text, often with your name or state mentioned to increase believability.
• The message says you must pay a fine or fee immediately to avoid increased penalties, license suspension, or further legal action.
• It includes a link to a payment portal, which leads to a fake website mimicking the DMV.
• If you enter your payment details, you’re giving scammers access to your credit card or bank account.
• In some cases, the link may install malware on your phone or computer to steal even more information.

This scam is especially effective because it creates a false sense of urgency and uses government authority to pressure people into complying.