Within the past week I have received two texts indicating notice to pay a past due traffic violation. I am wondering whether DMV in Florida are experiencing people receiving spam texts stating past due unpaid violations.

Yes, the Florida Department of Highway Safety and Motor Vehicles (FLHSMV) is actively warning people about a widespread text message scam claiming past due traffic violations. This scam has been circulating recently, including within the past week.

Here’s what you need to know:

• It’s a scam: The FLHSMV will never contact you via text message demanding payment or threatening license suspension or arrest.
• Don’t click links: The texts typically include a fraudulent link that attempts to steal your personal and financial information or install malware.
• Common tactics: Scammers use aggressive language, threaten license suspension or vehicle registration revocation, and cite fake “Florida Codes” to pressure you into immediate payment.
• How to spot it: Look for strange characters, typos, or web addresses that don’t end in “.gov” (the official FLHSMV website is flhsmv.gov).
• What to do:
  • Do not click any links.
  • Do not reply. Even replying “STOP” can confirm your number is active.
  • Delete the message.
  • Block the sender.
  • Report it: You can report these scams to the Federal Trade Commission (FTC) at reportfraud.ftc.gov and to your local law enforcement agency.

If you are concerned about a legitimate traffic violation, always go directly to the official FLHSMV website (flhsmv.gov) or contact them using their official phone number (850-617-2000). Do not use any contact information provided in a suspicious text message.