Do you have a DMV Question?

It is highly probable that the texts you received are a scam. The Florida Department of Highway Safety and Motor Vehicles (FLHSMV) and local authorities have been issuing widespread warnings about phishing scams involving fake texts claiming to be from the DMV or SunPass regarding unpaid traffic tickets or tolls.

Here’s why these texts are almost certainly fraudulent and what you should know:

FLHSMV will NOT contact you via text message demanding payment or threatening suspension or arrest. This is the most crucial point. Official communications from FLHSMV regarding violations or outstanding fees are typically sent via official mail.
The texts often use urgent and threatening language. Scammers try to create panic to get you to click on malicious links without thinking. Phrases like “Final Notice,” “Enforcement Penalties Begin,” and threats of license suspension are common tactics.
The links are fake. If you click on the link, it will likely lead to a fraudulent website designed to steal your personal and financial information (credit card details, bank information, or identity). The legitimate FLHSMV website ends in “.gov” (e.g., flhsmv.gov). Scam links often use variations with “.com,” “.cc,” or unusual characters.
Scammers cast a wide net. They don’t know your personal violation history. They send these texts to many people hoping some will be concerned enough to fall for the scam, even if they have no outstanding violations.
“DMV” is often used incorrectly. In Florida, the official agency is the Florida Department of Highway Safety and Motor Vehicles (FLHSMV), not simply “DMV.” While people commonly refer to it as the DMV, official communications would typically use the full name or its acronym.
Regarding your concern about your system being hacked:
It’s unlikely that your system has been hacked specifically in relation to these texts. These scams are typically mass phishing attempts where scammers send texts to large numbers of random phone numbers, not necessarily targeting individuals whose systems have been compromised. Your phone number might have been obtained through various public sources or data breaches, but it doesn’t indicate a hack of your personal devices.

What you should do:

DO NOT click on any links in the text messages.

DO NOT reply to the text messages. Not even “STOP,” as this confirms your number is active to the scammers.

Mark the messages as spam and delete them immediately. Most smartphones have an option to report spam.

Report the scam:

To the Federal Trade Commission (FTC): You can report it online at reportfraud.ftc.gov.
To your local law enforcement agency.
To FLHSMV’s fraud section: You can email fraud@flhsmv.gov.
Forward the text message to your carrier’s spam reporting number: This is usually 7726 (SPAM).
Verify your traffic violation status directly (if you’re still concerned):

Go directly to the official FLHSMV website: http://www.flhsmv.gov. You can access their MyDMV Portal to check your driver’s license status.
Contact the Clerk of Court in the county where your previous violation occurred. You can usually find their official website and contact information through a direct web search for “[County Name] Florida Clerk of Court.” They often have online systems to look up traffic citations by citation number or your name.
Call FLHSMV customer service directly at 850-617-2000.
By following these steps, you can protect yourself from these fraudulent schemes.