Consumers Warned about Scam Texts on “Traffic Tickets”

The South Carolina Department of Motor Vehicles (SCDMV) reminds the public that it does not use text messages to collect for unpaid traffic tickets or toll violations.

The SCDMV is aware of numerous text messages received in the state in recent days purporting that the recipients have overdue traffic tickets and threatening to suspend driving privileges unless payment is made. The texts often include a link that imitates the SCDMV address and webpage.

South Carolinians should be aware:

• The SCDMV does not send texts demanding payment or threatening suspensions for toll violations or unpaid tickets.
• Text messages or emails that call for an immediate response often are used by scammers to push the unwary to pay before they can become suspicious.
• The legitimate SCDMV webpage is at https://www.scdmvonline.com/ Beware of deceptive links that will divert you to impostor websites.
• It’s best to delete the scam text if you have received it, and spam texts can be reported to your mobile carrier by forwarding to 7726 (SPAM).

If you interacted with the scam text, it’s best to monitor your bank and credit card accounts to watch for fraud. You can also report scams and suspicious communications to the Federal Trade Commission.