This text scam states that you have an unpaid traffic citation (ticket) and penalties will begin if left unresolved. It ends with a link to pay, which takes you to a fraudulent website ready to steal your money.
WHAT TO DO:
- The first clue that this text is a scam is that it was sent to numerous people (arrow 1 in the image).
- The second clue that this traffic citation text could be a scam is that it uses a URL shortener (cutt.ly) shown by arrow 2. A URL shortener simply takes a long web address and makes it shorter to save space or mask the real address.
For example, if you’re telling a friend about your fabulous new job training hummingbirds to do dishes, you might first send her a link of the type of hummingbirds you work with. You may notice how long the web address is:
https://madeupbirdwebsite.com/birds/north-american-birds/united-states/colorado-birds/southern-colorado/seasonal/by-type/broad-tailed-hummingbird/color/green/female/additional-sub-category/running-out-of-ideas/are-we-done-yet/#how-to-identify-this-hummingbird.
Cutt.ly and Bit.ly are both examples of websites that shorten web addresses so they aren’t so unsightly and better fit in business texts and emails (as shown by arrow 2). Because these two companies can be used for both legitimate and scam business, it’s always best to doubt the authenticity of these links when you receive them unexpectedly. Especially when they refer to government business. Bottom line: Don’t click on the link. - The real DMV states they “will not send you unsolicited texts, emails, or phone calls — especially ones that threaten you with legal action. The DMV will never ask for personal information such as your driver’s license number, social security number, or date of birth via an unsolicited text or email.” – Aura
Whenever in doubt, look up your local DMV’s number and call them directly.